By admin 
Introduction:
The Lonesome Drifter and the Folk Ballad: Elvis Presley’s “Early Mornin’ Rain”
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Early Mornin’ Rain” might hold a place in the hearts of many fans, but the song’s origins lie far from the glitz of Las Vegas stages. It all began with a Canadian folksinger named Gordon Lightfoot.
Lightfoot wrote “Early Mornin’ Rain” in 1960, imbuing it with the melancholic tone of a folk ballad. The lyrics paint a picture of a lonesome traveler, his pockets empty, heart heavy, and drenched in a cold morning rain. The song resonated with the folk revival movement of the era, and Lightfoot himself found success with it, releasing it on his 1961 album “Lightfoot!”.
“Early Mornin’ Rain” soon transcended folk circles. The Kingston Trio, another prominent folk group, covered the song in 1962, further propelling it into the mainstream. This is where Elvis Presley enters the picture. Always on the lookout for good material, Presley included “Early Mornin’ Rain” on his 1965 album “Elvis for Everyone.”
Presley’s version took Lightfoot’s melancholic core and added a touch of his signature rock and roll swagger. The tempo increased, and Presley’s powerful vocals injected a new energy into the song. Despite these changes, the essence of Lightfoot’s lyrics remained, the tale of a lonely drifter still resonating through Presley’s interpretation.
“Early Mornin’ Rain” became a staple of Presley’s live performances, particularly in his later years. Fans embraced his version, and it became a reminder of Presley’s ability to connect with a song’s emotional core, regardless of genre. Whether you prefer Lightfoot’s introspective folk or Presley’s rock and roll rendition, “Early Mornin’ Rain” endures as a testament to the power of a well-crafted song that can resonate across musical styles.
This introduction provides a brief history of the song, highlighting its folk origins with Gordon Lightfoot and its transformation into a rock and roll classic with Elvis Presley. It touches on the lyrical themes and Presley’s live performances, offering a well-rounded introduction to the song before you listen.