About The Song
Elvis Presley. The name itself evokes a whirlwind of cultural impact – the swiveling hips, the electrifying performances, the undeniable charisma that sent teenagers into a frenzy. But beyond the rock and roll persona, Presley possessed a remarkable vocal versatility, effortlessly traversing genres and emotional depths. Today, we delve into a lesser-known gem from his vast repertoire, a song that showcases a different side of the King: (Now and Then There’s) A Fool Such as I.
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Released in 1959, (Now and Then There’s) A Fool Such as I wasn’t a bombastic rocker or a heart-stopping ballad. Instead, it belonged to the genre of countrypolitan, a smooth blend of country music’s storytelling with the lush orchestral arrangements of popular music. This was a genre Presley often revisited, and here, it provides the perfect canvas for him to explore themes of vulnerability and lingering heartbreak.
Composed by Bill Trader, the song predates Presley’s recording by several years. Originally a country hit for Hank Snow, it found new life when Presley, fresh off his army service, brought his own interpretation to the table.
The result is a masterclass in understated emotional delivery. Gone are the trademark growls and playful swagger. Here, Presley croons with a gentle melancholy, his voice tinged with regret and a touch of resignation.
The lyrics paint a picture of a man haunted by memories. The opening lines, “If I’m sentimental when you’re gone, yet I dream a little, dream as years go by,” establish a sense of longing for a love lost.
The recurring refrain, “Now and then, there’s a fool such as I”, acts as a self-deprecating acknowledgement of his lingering feelings. He’s aware of his foolishness, clinging to a past that can’t be recaptured, yet the power of love persists.
(Now and Then There’s) A Fool Such as I may not be one of Presley’s flashiest recordings, but it’s a testament to his artistry. It allows him to showcase a different vocal register, one that’s introspective and emotionally resonant.
The song reminds us that beneath the King’s rock and roll exterior resided a sensitive soul, capable of conveying vulnerability and heartache with remarkable nuance. So, put on your best listening ears, and prepare to be surprised by this hidden gem from the King of Rock and Roll.