“A Complete Analysis of the September 23, 1957 Edition That Marked a Turning Point in Elvis’s Career”
Introduction
The single “Jailhouse Rock / Treat Me Nice” (RCA Victor 47-7035) occupies a fundamental place in Elvis Presley’s discography. Both songs were written by the legendary duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, recorded for the film Jailhouse Rock and released in September 1957.
This article explores every aspect of the release: technical data, recording sessions, historical context, song analysis, chart performance, collector’s information, and the long-lasting influence of this essential double-sided single.
Technical Information
- Artist: Elvis Presley
- Title: Jailhouse Rock (A-side) / Treat Me Nice (B-side)
- Label: RCA Victor (USA)
- Catalog Number: 47-7035
- Format: 7-inch single, 45 RPM
- Release Date: September 23, 1957
- Recording Sessions:
- “Jailhouse Rock” – recorded April 30, 1957 at Radio Recorders, Hollywood
- “Treat Me Nice” – recorded September 5, 1957 in Hollywood
- Genre: Rock & Roll / Rhythm & Blues
- Songwriters: Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller
- Producers: Associated with Leiber & Stoller during the soundtrack sessions
- International Releases: Issued in various countries with local label variations
Recording and Production Context
In 1957, Elvis was at the peak of his early fame. The film Jailhouse Rock, released that same year, provided the narrative framework that inspired both sides of the single. Leiber and Stoller were assigned to create songs for the soundtrack, delivering some of their most powerful work.
While “Jailhouse Rock” became the flagship theme, “Treat Me Nice” also appeared in the film and showcased a more relaxed R&B-influenced side of Elvis.
The sessions were held in Hollywood with Elvis’s regular studio musicians, capturing the raw and energetic sound characteristic of Presley’s classic 1950s output.
The single 47-7035 also gained a special place among collectors due to its label variations, pressing plant differences, and the presence of the famed RCA “Nipper” logo, making certain editions extremely rare.
Track Analysis
A-Side: “Jailhouse Rock”
“Jailhouse Rock” is one of the defining anthems of early rock & roll. Its lively and humorous lyrics depict a fictionalized scene inside a prison block, filled with character and rhythm.
The song reached number one on the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom and became inseparable from the film thanks to Elvis’s groundbreaking dance sequence, often considered one of the first true music videos in history.
B-Side: “Treat Me Nice”
Although placed on the B-side, “Treat Me Nice” is a strong composition with a smooth R&B groove. It highlights Elvis’s vocal charm and versatility and scored impressive chart success on its own, reaching high positions on U.S. R&B charts.
Together, the two tracks form one of the most balanced and iconic double-sided singles of the decade.
Release and Distribution
The official U.S. release under RCA Victor 47-7035 came in late September 1957. The single was pressed at multiple RCA plants—such as Indianapolis, Rockaway, and Hollywood—each producing labels with small but important differences.
International editions were also issued across Europe and other markets, often with unique label colors, logos, and font styles. These variations are highly valued by collectors today.
Reception and Legacy
The single proved to be a commercial triumph. “Jailhouse Rock” dominated the charts, while “Treat Me Nice” affirmed Elvis’s skill in blending rock & roll with rhythm & blues.
The cultural impact of the release was immense. Elvis’s music, image, and film presence were unified in a way that shaped popular culture worldwide.
From a collector’s perspective, the 47-7035 single is one of the most sought-after Elvis records, especially early pressings in excellent condition.
Collector’s Notes
- Verify catalog number: RCA 47-7035
- Observe label variations (logo placement, text layout, color differences)
- Identify pressing plant marks: Indianapolis, Rockaway, or Hollywood
- Condition of sleeve and vinyl greatly affects value
- Reissues often differ in label color, font, or layout
Conclusion
The single “Jailhouse Rock / Treat Me Nice” (RCA 47-7035) stands as a milestone in Elvis Presley’s career and in the evolution of 1950s rock & roll. The combination of an explosive A-side and a soulful B-side, supported by the film release and Elvis’s magnetic presence, created a cultural phenomenon that remains influential to this day.
For any website dedicated to Elvis Presley, this single provides rich historical, musical, and collectible content—cementing its place as one of the essential releases of the King of Rock & Roll.
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