Introduction:
“I’m Not the Marrying Kind,” recorded by Elvis Presley in 1961, is a playful, upbeat track featured in the 1962 film Follow That Dream, where Elvis starred as Toby Kwimper, a carefree young man living on the road. The song was composed by Mack David and Sherman Edwards and showcases Elvis’s versatility in embodying various musical styles and character roles. Its lighthearted lyrics reflect a humorous perspective on avoiding romantic commitment, capturing the spirit of Elvis’s character in the film.
The recording took place at RCA Studio B in Nashville, a favorite studio for Elvis where he collaborated with accomplished session musicians like guitarist Scotty Moore, drummer D.J. Fontana, and saxophonist Boots Randolph. With its catchy melody and witty lyrics, “I’m Not the Marrying Kind” aligned well with the film’s plot, adding charm to Elvis’s portrayal of a nonchalant young man resistant to settling down. The song was later included in the C’mon Everybody album, released in 1971, which gathered some of Elvis’s popular movie tracks from the early 1960s.
The song’s charm lies in its bouncy rhythm and Elvis’s laid-back vocal delivery, resonating with the rock-and-roll era’s playful take on romance and freedom. “I’m Not the Marrying Kind” remains a testament to Elvis’s ability to blend humor and music, solidifying his place not only as a rock icon but also as a cultural figure whose music often intertwined with his on-screen roles.