A studio record that reflects the vocal and emotional strength of the King of Rock in the 1970s
Introduction
In 1974, Elvis Presley was going through an intense stage of his career. With constant tours, Las Vegas shows, and a complicated personal life, he still found the time to record albums that showcased his inexhaustible talent. One of the most notable records of that period was Good Times, his twenty-first studio album, released by RCA Victor.
This work, recorded mostly in December 1973 at the Stax Studios in Memphis, presents a mature Elvis with a powerful and deeply emotional voice. Although it did not achieve the commercial impact of his 1950s and 1960s classics, Good Times is regarded by many fans and critics as a solid album that represents his 1970s artistry.
Technical details
- Title: Good Times
- Artist: Elvis Presley
- Type: Studio album
- Release date: March 1974
- Recording: December 10–16, 1973, Stax Studios, Memphis
- Label: RCA Victor
- Producer: Felton Jarvis
- Length: 28:35
- Genres: Rock, country, soul, pop
Tracklist
Side A:
- Take Good Care of Her
- Loving Arms
- I Got a Feelin’ in My Body
- If That Isn’t Love
- She Wears My Ring
Side B:
6. I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby
7. My Boy
8. Spanish Eyes
9. Talk About the Good Times
10. Good Time Charlie’s Got the Blues
Musical analysis
The album is marked by the diversity of styles Elvis managed to blend seamlessly. From heartfelt ballads like Take Good Care of Her and My Boy, to soul-inspired numbers such as I Got a Feelin’ in My Body, Presley displays a wide vocal range full of nuance.
One of the strongest moments is Loving Arms, where Elvis delivers a rare vulnerability, proving his ability to move listeners with an intimate performance. In contrast, songs like Talk About the Good Times and I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby bring a brighter and more upbeat spirit, reminding fans that the King could still deliver lively, energetic tracks.
Production and recording
The Good Times sessions took place at Stax Studios in Memphis, a venue with deep roots in the history of soul music. Elvis was joined by first-class musicians, including James Burton on guitar, David Briggs on piano, and Ronnie Tutt on drums—key members of his TCB Band.
Producer Felton Jarvis aimed for a polished sound without overshadowing Presley’s vocals, which remained the album’s centerpiece. The chosen repertoire was varied, combining romantic ballads, country tunes, and soul influences that recalled Memphis’ rich musical legacy.
Reception and reviews
Upon release, Good Times did not achieve the sales of Presley’s earlier iconic albums. It peaked at number 90 on the Billboard 200 and received only modest attention compared to his past works. However, the singles performed relatively well:
- I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby reached number 39 on the Billboard Hot 100.
- My Boy climbed to number 20 in the U.S., becoming one of Elvis’s biggest hits of the 1970s.
Over time, critics have reappraised Good Times, recognizing it as a solid record that highlights Presley’s more mature and expressive side.
Curiosities and trivia
- My Boy was an English adaptation of a French hit and became one of Elvis’s most heartfelt performances, symbolically linked to his daughter Lisa Marie.
- During the Stax sessions, Presley struggled with health issues and emotional ups and downs, yet he managed to deliver intense performances.
- The album title, Good Times, contrasts with Elvis’s personal life at the time, marked by fatigue and pressure from his busy schedule.
- The LP has been reissued several times, including remastered editions and box sets that feature alternate takes from the 1973 sessions.
Conclusion
Good Times (1974) is an album that deserves a second listen from every Elvis Presley fan. Far from the blockbuster hits of his youth, this record captures an artist who, despite personal struggles, could still convey deep emotions and produce quality music.
Reason to listen
Because Good Times reveals Elvis Presley at a moment of artistic maturity, with a repertoire that combines moving ballads and vibrant tracks, proving that even in the 1970s the King of Rock still had an unmatched voice.
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