“A deep look into the March 21, 1957 RCA 20/47-6870 release — two songs that defined Elvis Presley’s artistic power and shaped the sound of early rock’n’roll”
Introduction
In the spring of 1957, Elvis Presley reached a defining moment in his career with the release of the single “All Shook Up / That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” (RCA 20/47-6870). The record perfectly captured the duality of the King’s artistry: the upbeat, rebellious energy of rock’n’roll on the A-side, and the tender, crooning emotion of a romantic ballad on the B-side. Together, they cemented his status as a global phenomenon.
Release and Technical Information
- Artist: Elvis Presley
- Single: All Shook Up (Side A) / That’s When Your Heartaches Begin (Side B)
- Release Date: March 21, 1957
- Catalogue Number: RCA 20/47-6870
- Format: 7? single (45 rpm)
- Recording Date – “All Shook Up”: January 12, 1957, Radio Recorders Studio, Hollywood
- Recording Date – “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin”: 1957 session for RCA; originally composed in 1937
- Label: RCA Victor / RCA Records
Song Origins
All Shook Up
Written by Otis Blackwell (co-credited to Elvis Presley), “All Shook Up” was inspired by a casual phrase that turned into one of rock’s most infectious titles. Elvis recorded it on January 12, 1957, giving life to a track defined by a crisp rhythm, simple yet powerful guitar licks, and his unmistakable vocal style. The song became an anthem of youthful excitement and raw emotion.
That’s When Your Heartaches Begin
Composed in 1937 by Fred Fisher, William Raskin, and Bill Hill, this sentimental ballad was a favorite of Elvis even before fame struck. He had previously recorded versions privately before producing the professional RCA take in 1957. As the B-side of the single, it showcased his smooth, emotional range and love for classic pre-rock standards.
Context and Background
By early 1957, Elvis was no longer just a rising star—he was the face of modern music. “All Shook Up” arrived right as his fame exploded through records, radio, and television. The single’s dual nature — the energy of the A-side paired with the sincerity of the B-side — made it a perfect commercial and artistic package. It bridged generations, appealing to both teenagers and adults.
Commercial and Cultural Impact
“All Shook Up” quickly rose to No. 1 on the U.S. charts, where it remained for several weeks. It also dominated country and R&B listings, becoming one of Presley’s biggest hits of the decade.
The softer “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” helped broaden his audience, showing a tenderness that contrasted with his fiery rock image.
Culturally, “All Shook Up” became synonymous with the 1950s rock & roll revolution. The song’s title even entered the popular lexicon, and it remains one of Elvis’s signature recordings, representing the sound and spirit of postwar youth rebellion.
Recording Session and Musicians
The recording of “All Shook Up” featured Elvis’s classic backing band:
- Elvis Presley – Lead vocals, rhythm accompaniment
- Scotty Moore – Guitar
- Bill Black – Double bass
- D.J. Fontana – Drums
- The Jordanaires – Backing vocals
The session’s production emphasized a clean, direct sound typical of 1950s jukebox rock & roll: a strong backbeat, prominent vocals, and minimal studio effects. The chemistry between Presley and his musicians created an energetic yet natural recording that still feels fresh today.
Legacy and Later Recognition
“All Shook Up” is widely regarded as one of the greatest songs in rock history. It has appeared on numerous “Best of Elvis” and “Top Songs of All Time” lists. The single’s success helped define Elvis’s artistic identity: a bridge between rhythm and blues, pop, and country influences.
Meanwhile, “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” remains a sentimental favorite among fans, illustrating Presley’s lifelong connection to emotional balladry and traditional pop music.
Together, the two sides of this single demonstrate why Elvis remains one of the most versatile and influential performers of the 20th century.
Why This Single Matters for Elvis Presley Fans
- It captures the moment Elvis transitioned from rising sensation to cultural icon.
- It showcases his versatility — from driving rock rhythms to heartfelt ballads.
- It provides rich material for collectors, historians, and fans exploring his early RCA years.
- It remains a cornerstone of any complete Presley discography or fan archive.
Conclusion
The single “All Shook Up / That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” (RCA 20/47-6870, March 21, 1957) stands as a milestone in both Elvis Presley’s career and the broader story of rock’n’roll. With a groundbreaking A-side that electrified global audiences and a soulful B-side that revealed his emotional depth, this record symbolizes the full range of Elvis’s artistry. For any website or archive dedicated to the King, it represents the essence of his early genius and the moment the world truly got all shook up.
Explore our complete Elvis discography with detailed sheets, galleries, and analysis. View discography
