Introduction:
Released in 1956, amidst the whirlwind of Elvis Presley’s meteoric rise to fame, “How Do You Think I Feel” stands out as a quiet yet powerful deviation from his usual rock ‘n’ roll anthems. This heartfelt ballad showcases a side of the King rarely seen – a man grappling with vulnerability, insecurity, and the complexities of love.
Composed by the songwriting duo of Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, and Florence Kaye, known for crafting some of Elvis’s early hits like “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock,” “How Do You Think I Feel” delves deeper than playful teenage crushes. While the song doesn’t have a credited producer, it likely fell under the supervision of Colonel Tom Parker, Elvis’s enigmatic manager, who oversaw his early recordings.
“How Do You Think I Feel” reached number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, a respectable showing amidst a string of chart-topping successes for the young Elvis. However, the song’s significance goes beyond its chart ranking. It offered a glimpse into the emotional core of the man behind the electrifying performances and the carefully cultivated rock ‘n’ roll persona.
Elvis’s signature swagger and playful theatrics are absent in “How Do You Think I Feel.” Instead, his voice carries a raw vulnerability as he delivers the song’s simple yet evocative lyrics. The repeated lines, “How do you think I feel? How do you think we stand?” resonate with a universal yearning to be understood and acknowledged in a relationship.
“How Do You Think I Feel” continues to resonate with listeners today. It serves as a reminder that even icons like Elvis Presley grappled with the same emotional complexities that everyone faces. The song’s timeless message of yearning for connection and validation transcends generations and musical styles.
“How Do You Think I Feel” isn’t just a song from the 1950s; it’s an invitation to embrace emotional honesty. As Elvis’s voice pleads for understanding, remember, vulnerability isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength that allows for deeper connections. So, let this song inspire you to express your own emotions and open yourself to the power of genuine communication in your relationships.
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Lyrics:
How do you think I feel?Well, I know your love’s not realThe girl I’m mad about is just a gadaboutHow do you think I feel?How do you think we stand?I know you’ve made your planBut you’ve included threeAnd that’s too much for meHow do you think I feel?I won’t be true againI know that I can’t winSo why should I pretendThat you still love me?How do you think I feel?Well, I know your love’s not realThe one I’m mad about is just a gadaboutHow do you think I feel?How do you think I feel?Well, I know your love’s not realThe girl I’m mad about is just a gadaboutHow do you think I feel?How do you think we stand?I know you’ve made your planBut now this pretty face,Has put me out of placeHow do you think I feel?I won’t be true againI know that I can’t winSo why should I pretendThat you still love me?How do you think I feel?Well, I know your love’s not realAnd you’ve included threeAnd that’s too much for meHow do you think I feel?