Elvis Presley could sing anything and make it sound meaningful and masterful. He loved country, gospel, rock, blues, and just about every other genre under the sun. But he thought one song in particular was the saddest he ever recorded. Which one was that?
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Per American Songwriter, after he served in the Army from 1958 to 1960, he gravitated to "more sentimental" and thoughtful music. It wasn't all about gyrating hips and jailhouse rock anymore. It was like Elvis grew up and his maturity was reflected in the songs he chose. There was one that was searingly emotional - his rendition of the poignant Hank Williams hit, "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry."
Elvis Presley Sang "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" When He Gave A Concert In Hawaii
When Elvis appeared at the Honolulu International Center on January 14, 1973, he reportedly shared with the crowd, "I'd like to sing a song that's probably the saddest song I ever heard." That Hank Williams classic he referred to could make even a rock weep.
The potent imagery, the woeful music, and the overall downcast mood of the tune combine to produce an effect that gets you in the gut. Then there is Elvis himself, the consummate showman, who knew exactly how to communicate feeling in a song. In his hands, this was a blockbuster.
Although he was heading into the final phase of his glorious career, Elvis still had the magic that made him a superstar. He commanded the stage and the attention of the audience. And of all the songs he covered so well over the course of many years, this one stood out.
He Had An Affinity For The Country Genre
Per the outlet, "Though he will always be considered a rock icon, Presley did a lot for country music as well." Country music is about storytelling. It's about what unites us as human beings - love of family, of the land, of God, and of this nation. Elvis was attuned to those homespun values. He came from modest Southern origins and country music as in his blood. He connected with it on a deep level. So when he sang "I'm So Lonesone I Could Cry," it wasn't just a song. It was an intense experience for him and for the throng that heard it.
