“A look at the 1973 single that showcased Elvis’ versatility between rock and intimate balladry”
Elvis Presley and His 1973 Single: “Raised on Rock / For Ol’ Times Sake”
In 1973, Elvis Presley was in a highly active stage of his career. After the worldwide success of the “Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite” TV special, the King of Rock continued recording material in Memphis and Nashville studios. Among the releases of that year, the single “Raised on Rock / For Ol’ Times Sake” stands out, reflecting both his rock energy and his more intimate, melodic side.
Recording and Production
- Recording date: July 23, 1973, at Stax Studios, Memphis, Tennessee.
- Producer: Felton Jarvis.
- Side A – “Raised on Rock”: Written by Mark James (also the composer of “Suspicious Minds”), this track blends classic rock with a 1970s contemporary feel. The lyrics reflect the experience of growing up listening to radio hits, a generational nod.
- Side B – “For Ol’ Times Sake”: A ballad penned by Tony Joe White, filled with nostalgia and emotion. Elvis delivers a deep, heartfelt vocal performance, accompanied by minimalist instrumentation that highlights the warmth of his voice.
Release and Reception
The single was released in August 1973 under the RCA Victor label.
- “Raised on Rock” reached #41 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.
- “For Ol’ Times Sake” climbed to #42 on the Hot Country Singles chart, being well received within the country music scene.
Although it was not one of Elvis’ biggest commercial hits, the single displayed the wide range of styles he could embrace—from rootsy rock to Southern balladry.
Connection to the Raised on Rock Album
The single was also part of the “Raised on Rock / For Ol’ Times Sake” album, released in October 1973. The LP included other recordings from the Stax sessions, a period during which Elvis worked with top-level Memphis soul and rhythm & blues musicians.
Legacy of the Single
- Represents a transitional moment in Elvis’ career during the mid-1970s.
- Highlights the influence of gifted songwriters such as Mark James and Tony Joe White.
- Balances the power of a rock-driven track with the intimacy of a nostalgic ballad.
- While not a major chart success, it remains valued by collectors and fans for its authenticity and musical variety.
With “Raised on Rock / For Ol’ Times Sake,” Elvis Presley once again proved in 1973 that he could embody both the power of rock and the emotional depth of a ballad. This single perfectly reflects his artistic range at a time when he continued reinventing himself, nearly two decades into his career.
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