Marguerita- Elvis Presley (1963)

Ah, Marguerita, a lesser-known gem from the illustrious career of the King himself, Elvis Presley. Released in 1963, this track offers a fascinating glimpse into a specific period of Elvis’s artistic journey.

By 1963, Elvis had already conquered the world. Hits like “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Jailhouse Rock” had cemented his status as a global icon. However, the musical landscape was shifting. The grittier sounds of rock and roll were starting to give way to the burgeoning British Invasion, spearheaded by the likes of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

In this context, Marguerita stands out as a bridge between eras. Recorded for the film “Fun in Acapulco,” the song retains the playful charm and rhythmic energy of Elvis’s early rock and roll hits. The instrumentation is classic: a driving backbeat anchored by Scotty Moore’s characteristic guitar twang, punctuated by flourishes from Barney Kessel and Tiny Timbrell. The Jordanaires and The Amigos provide rich vocal harmonies, a signature element of Elvis’s sound.

However, beneath the familiar surface, Marguerita hints at a subtle shift. The lyrics, penned by Don Robertson, delve into the realm of romantic obsession. The protagonist, completely smitten with a woman named Margarita, describes her with a captivating intensity: “Who makes my heart beat like thunder? Who makes my temperature rise?” The language is more suggestive than what one might typically hear in Elvis’s earlier work.

There’s also a touch of vulnerability in the way Elvis delivers the vocals. Gone is the cocksure swagger of his younger days. Here, he’s a man captivated, a prisoner to Margarita’s charms. This vulnerability adds a new dimension to his performance, showcasing a maturing artist willing to explore emotional complexities.

Marguerita might not be a chart-topping smash hit, but for dedicated Elvis fans and music historians, it holds a significant place. It’s a testament to the King’s ability to adapt and evolve within the ever-changing musical landscape. It’s a song that bridges the gap between his rock and roll roots and the more introspective themes that would emerge later in his career. So, put on your blue suede shoes, grab your favorite beverage, and prepare to be transported back to 1963 with a taste of the ever-evolving sound of the King himself.

Video

Lyrics

“Marguerita”
(from “Fun In Acapulco” soundtrack)