“A Transitional Record in the King’s Career”
Historical Context of the Album
In 1973, Elvis Presley was at a crucial stage of his career. After the worldwide success of the Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite concert, the King of Rock was trying to remain relevant in an ever-changing music market. In this context, “Raised on Rock / For Ol’ Times Sake” was released by RCA Victor in October 1973.
The album was recorded mainly at Stax Studios in Memphis, between July and September of that year, where Elvis had already worked on part of his previous material.
Concept and Musical Style
The title “Raised on Rock” seemed like a statement of principles, although the song itself referenced a younger generation raised on artists like Chuck Berry and Little Richard—Elvis’s own contemporaries. This nuance was seen by some critics as contradictory, presenting Presley more as part of a past era than as a current rock leader.
Musically, the album delivers a blend of styles:
- Classic rock with rhythm & blues touches.
- Emotional ballads in 1970s fashion.
- Soul and pop influences.
Tracklist of Raised on Rock (1973)
Side A
- Raised on Rock (Mark James)
- Are You Sincere (Wayne Walker)
- Find Out What’s Happening (Jerry Crutchfield)
- I Miss You (Donnie Sumner)
- Girl of Mine (Les Reed, Barry Mason)
Side B
6. For Ol’ Times Sake (Tony Joe White)
7. If You Don’t Come Back (Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller)
8. Just a Little Bit (Ralph Bass, John Thornton, Piney Brown)
9. Sweet Angeline (Chris Arnold, David Martin, Geoff Morrow)
10. Three Corn Patches (Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller)
Highlighted Songs
- Raised on Rock: the lead single, with a classic rock feel that evoked the early days of the genre.
- For Ol’ Times Sake: one of the strongest ballads on the record, written by Tony Joe White, with a soulful touch.
- Are You Sincere: a melodic piece showcasing Elvis’s most romantic side.
Critical and Commercial Reception
The album received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics pointed out the lack of cohesion and the absence of a truly standout track to carry the record. However, Elvis was recognized for his effort to modernize and experiment with new sounds at a time when rock was dominated by emerging bands.
Commercially, Raised on Rock reached No. 162 on the Billboard 200, a modest result compared to Presley’s earlier chart successes. The single “Raised on Rock” peaked at No. 41 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Importance in Elvis Presley’s Discography
Though not regarded as one of Elvis’s most influential albums, Raised on Rock represents a period of search and transition. It is part of the cycle of recordings at Stax Studios, which produced both remarkable tracks and more discreet songs.
This LP stands as evidence that Elvis, despite industry pressures and personal struggles, kept recording and exploring styles in the early 1970s.
Conclusion
Raised on Rock (1973) is not Elvis Presley’s most memorable album, but it holds a significant place in his discography. It reflects the duality between the King of Rock’s glorious past and his attempts to adapt to the sounds of a new decade. Today, it remains a valuable piece for collectors and true fans of his work.
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