Introduction:
“Take Good Care of Her” is a tender ballad recorded by Elvis Presley in 1973 at the iconic Stax Studios in Memphis. Written by Arthur Kent and Ed Warren, the song was originally performed by Adam Wade in 1961, but it became well known through Elvis’s emotional rendition, which was released in January 1974 as part of the album I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby. The song reached modest chart success, peaking at number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Elvis recorded the song during a turbulent time in his life. His marriage to Priscilla Presley had ended in 1973, and many fans and critics believe that this personal experience influenced his poignant delivery. The lyrics reflect the sorrow of a man coming to terms with losing the love of his life, asking her new partner to cherish her as he did. This theme of heartbreak and selflessness resonates throughout the song, adding to its emotional depth.
Musically, “Take Good Care of Her” features a classic arrangement of guitars, piano, and background vocals, with contributions from Elvis’s long-time collaborators, including guitarist James Burton and backup singers like Kathy Westmoreland and J.D. Sumner. While not one of Elvis’s biggest hits, the song holds a special place in his catalog as a reflection of the personal struggles he faced during the 1970s.