Introduction:
Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, left an indelible mark on the music industry. His electrifying performances and genre-bending sound captivated audiences worldwide. But by the mid-1970s, Presley’s career had entered a more introspective phase. While still immensely popular, his health struggles and evolving musical landscape presented new challenges.
Moody Blue, released in 1976, became Presley’s final studio album. A departure from his earlier, rock-driven hits, the album showcased a more mature sound, blending elements of gospel, country, and pop. It’s Easy For You, the final track on the album, stands as a poignant and powerful conclusion to Presley’s illustrious career.
Composed by the songwriting duo of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, renowned for theatrical masterpieces like Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita, It’s Easy For You marked a unique collaboration for Presley. Webber and Rice, known for their grand, operatic compositions, crafted a song that resonated with Presley’s emotional depth.
Produced by Felton Jarvis, a longtime collaborator who worked on many of Presley’s recordings throughout the 1970s, It’s Easy For You was captured in the intimate setting of Presley’s “Jungle Room” studio at his Graceland mansion. This environment allowed for a raw and personal performance, with Presley’s vocals imbued with a vulnerability not often heard in his earlier works.
While It’s Easy For You did not achieve the chart-topping success of Presley’s earlier hits, it holds a significant place in his legacy. The song’s poignant lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, regret, and the complexities of relationships. Presley’s delivery is masterful, showcasing his remarkable vocal range and emotional connection to the material.
It’s Easy For You serves as a powerful testament to Presley’s artistic evolution. It’s a song that transcends genre, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level. Whether interpreted as a reflection on a past love or a broader commentary on life’s challenges, the song’s message remains timeless.
The inclusion of It’s Easy For You on Moody Blue adds a layer of finality to the album. It’s a song that feels introspective and contemplative, leaving a lasting impression on the listener. Though Presley would continue to perform live for another year, It’s Easy For You stands as a poignant closing chapter to his studio recording career.
Video:
Lyrics:
You may not mind that it’s overBut I’ve a different point of viewEven though I am shatteredIt’s easy for youYou don’t have to face the musicYou don’t have to face the crowdJust go back where you came fromYou ain’t even proudI had a wife and I had childrenI threw them all awayAnd now you tell me, you dare to tell meI should go back to themWhat do you think I should sayI found it hard to leave themSaddest thing I ever had to doMy problems haven’t startedAnd it’s easy for youI had a wife and I had childrenI threw them all awayAnd now you tell me, you dare to tell meI should go back to themWhat do you think, what on earth do you think I should sayIf you ever tire of the good lifeCall me in a year or twoI’ve got no choice, I’ll forgive you’cause it’s easy for youYou only have to call me, it’s easy for youYou only have to call me, it’s easy for you