17 Underrated Elvis Songs: Hidden Treasures of the King!

Hey there, music aficionados! TBone here from Level Tunes, and boy, do I have a treat for you today. As a DJ, there’s nothing I love more than diving deep into the archives of legendary artists and unearthing those hidden gems.

And who better to explore than the King himself – Elvis Presley? While everyone grooves to “Jailhouse Rock” and “Hound Dog,” there’s a treasure trove of underrated Elvis tracks that don’t get the limelight they deserve.

I decided to curate a list of 17 lesser-known Elvis jams because, just like you, I’m on a constant quest for those perfect tunes. Let’s dive in and rekindle that classic Elvis magic!

Here are the underrated Elvis songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Elvis Songs

Underrated Elvis songs in a list format:

Mystery Train

“Mystery Train” is one of those hypnotic tunes that subtly showcases Elvis’s vocal prowess. Written by Junior Parker and Sam Phillips, this track appears on the album “For LP Fans Only” (1959), released under the RCA Victor label. The song originally roots back to the blues, but Elvis, with his magnetic aura, turned it into a rockabilly anthem. The impeccable guitar work by Scotty Moore also deserves a round of applause, creating an atmosphere of a haunting, relentless journey. I chose this song because it manifests the raw essence of Elvis, seamlessly blending vulnerability with vigor.

My Baby Left Me

Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup crafted this heart-wrenching song, which found its place in Elvis’s “Elvis Presley” album in 1956, under the RCA Victor label. “My Baby Left Me” is a sorrow-soaked tune, where Presley’s vocal cords dance beautifully between the rhythms of pain and passion. The song’s arrangement might seem simple, but its emotive gravity is profound. The subtle instrumentation allows Elvis’s voice to shine, making you feel every ounce of the loss he portrays. It embodies the less commercial, more impassioned side of Elvis, and that’s precisely why it’s on this list.

Tomorrow Is a Long Time

Drenched in the poetic lyricism of Bob Dylan, “Tomorrow Is a Long Time” is featured in Elvis’s “Spinout” album, released in 1966 by RCA Victor. It is a soft, melancholic ballad that gently cradles the listener’s soul in its warm, tender embrace. Elvis’s rendition is thoughtfully expressive, supported by delicate acoustic guitars and soothing backing vocals, allowing the heartfelt lyrics to bloom. I chose this beautiful odyssey of longing and love because it showcases a more sensitive and introspective side of Elvis that often stays overshadowed by his rock and roll persona.

Trouble/Guitar Man

In the realm where rock and blues collide, “Trouble/Guitar Man” resides, an extraordinary performance by Elvis from the ’68 Comeback Special album, released by RCA in 1968. Written by Jerry Reed and Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller, this song sizzles with electrifying energy and Elvis’s undeniable charisma. The powerful guitar riffs and Elvis’s commanding vocals create an intoxicating atmosphere. It’s a performance that exhibits the King’s return to his roots, embracing the raw essence of rock and roll with a modern twist. I included this song to spotlight the magnificent blend of storytelling and musical mastery that makes Elvis timeless.

Stranger in My Own Home Town

Penned by the brilliant Percy Mayfield, “Stranger in My Own Home Town” was magnificently covered by Elvis in the “Back In Memphis” album, released in 1969 under RCA. The song reverberates with a soul-stirring blend of blues and gospel, where Elvis’s vocals soar with a fusion of pain and passion. Supported by robust brass sections and a compelling choir, the song leaves a significant impact. Choosing this song was essential to illustrate the depth and diversity of Elvis’s musical explorations, opening a window to his soul that echoes with raw and resonant emotions.

Any Day Now

“Any Day Now,” written by Burt Bacharach and Bob Hilliard, is a gem nestled in the “From Elvis in Memphis” album, 1969, under RCA. It is a powerful ballad where Elvis’s voice profoundly resonates with the tumultuous tides of imminent heartbreak. The orchestration is impeccably poignant, allowing the lyrics and Elvis’s delivery to shine. Choosing this song was essential to showcase Elvis’s ability to convey the complexities of human emotions with remarkable sensitivity and depth, making it an unforgettable musical experience.

Clean Up Your Own Back Yard

Featured in the soundtrack of “The Trouble with Girls” and released in 1969 under RCA, “Clean Up Your Own Back Yard” written by Mac Davis and Billy Strange, brings forth a message wrapped in melodies that echo with a refreshing country flavor. Elvis delivers the song with a comforting, narrative style that makes the message hit home seamlessly. Supported by playful yet purposeful instrumentation, this song holds a mirror to society’s hypocrisies. I picked this song because it unfolds a socially conscious layer of Elvis’s artistry, bridging music with meaningful messages.

After Loving You

This soul-stirring song by Eddie Miller and John Lantz was gracefully delivered by Elvis in the “From Elvis in Memphis” album (1969), under the RCA label. “After Loving You” is a passionate portrayal of love’s lingering echoes, where each note seems soaked in the depths of heartfelt emotions. The piano-driven arrangement beautifully complements Elvis’s soulful vocals, creating an atmosphere thick with the essence of love and loss. Choosing this song was a nod to the King’s mastery in conveying the vulnerabilities and veracities of love, making it linger in the landscapes of the listener’s heart.

Patch It Up

“Patch It Up,” written by Eddie Rabbitt and Rory Bourke, is a powerful, upbeat track from the “That’s the Way It Is” album (1970), released under RCA. This song is a vibrant vortex of energy, with dynamic rhythms and a driving beat that propels Elvis’s compelling vocals. It’s a showcase of Elvis’s robust rock essence, blended with a sprinkle of the glamour of Vegas. I chose this song to celebrate the unwavering spirit and the scorching heat that Elvis brought to the stage, making each performance an unforgettable blaze of brilliance.

I’ll Remember You

Written by Kui Lee, “I’ll Remember You” is a tender ballad from the “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite” album, released in 1973 under RCA. The song is a delicate embrace of nostalgia and gratitude, where Elvis’s vocals flow like a gentle river of warmth. His heartfelt delivery, paired with the song’s simple yet soulful arrangement, makes it an intimate listening experience. I chose this song to highlight the softer, more intimate shades of Elvis’s musical canvas, where each note seems to echo with personal memories and meaningful moments.

Promised Land

Chuck Berry’s “Promised Land” was brilliantly covered by Elvis in his album of the same name, released in 1975 under RCA. The song zips across the landscape of America with a rock and roll zest, infused with Elvis’s invigorating vocals and a lively arrangement. It captures the essence of journey and aspiration with a delightful musical spirit. I chose this song to illustrate the captivating storytelling and the vivacious vibrancy that Elvis brought into his musical expressions, turning each song into a dynamic and delightful journey.

If You Talk in Your Sleep

This track, penned by Red West and Johnny Christopher, from the “Promised Land” album (1975), brings out a blend of funk and gospel flavors in Elvis’s musical repertoire. “If You Talk in Your Sleep” sways with a compelling rhythm, crowned with Elvis’s expressive vocals, creating a melody that’s both catchy and insightful. I chose this song because it reflects a seamless blend of styles and emotions, underlining Elvis’s versatility and his ability to explore and excel in diverse musical terrains.

Moody Blue

Title track of the “Moody Blue” album (1977), written by Mark James, “Moody Blue” swirls with a delightful mix of country and pop. Elvis’s vocals glide gracefully over the melodies, creating a soundscape that’s both comforting and captivating. The light instrumentation and the catchy chorus make it a song that lingers long after the last note fades. I added this song to our list because it’s a testament to Elvis’s ability to evolve with the times, constantly redefining his musical boundaries while retaining his unique charm.

Way Down

Featured in the “Moody Blue” album (1977), “Way Down” by Layng Martine Jr., is a toe-tapping, energetic track that pulsates with the unmistakable Elvis vibe. Supported by lively instrumentation and a groovy baseline, Elvis’s vocals infuse the song with a contagious zest. It’s a reminder of the evergreen energy and enthusiasm that Elvis brought to the musical realm. I chose this song to celebrate the timeless allure of Elvis, ensuring his legacy lives on, “way down” through the generations.

Pledging My Love

Originally by Johnny Ace, Elvis’s rendition of “Pledging My Love” in the “Moody Blue” album (1977) is a heartwarming ode to eternal love. The song flows with a soft, soulful essence, where Elvis’s vocals envelop the listener in a comforting embrace of commitment and care. This song is a testament to the depth and dedication that Elvis brought to each of his renditions, turning classics into personal expressions of his artistry. I picked this song to spotlight the heartfelt humanity that echoed in Elvis’s voice, making each song a soulful serenade.

It’s Midnight

Written by Jerry Chesnut and Billy Edd Wheeler, “It’s Midnight” from the “Promised Land” album (1975) is a poignant portrayal of heartbreak and hope. Elvis’s vocals, drenched in emotion, take the listener on a rollercoaster of feelings, making every word resonate with raw reality. The orchestration complements the emotive essence, creating an atmosphere thick with introspection and insight. I chose this song to underline the depth and diversity of Elvis’s artistry, reminding us of the myriad shades of human emotions he could effortlessly evoke.

Separate Ways

Penned by Red West and Richard Mainegra, “Separate Ways” from the album of the same name (1972), speaks volumes about love’s complexities and life’s unpredictabilities. The song unfolds with a melancholic melody, where Elvis’s vocals mirror the vulnerabilities and vicissitudes of life and love. It’s a song that gently tugs at the heartstrings, making the listener reflect and resonate. I added this track to our list because it’s a testament to Elvis’s unparalleled ability to touch the deepest corners of the heart, turning each song into a soulful symphony.

Fun Facts: Underrated Elvis Songs

Mystery Train

• Origin Story: “Mystery Train” was originally a blues song recorded by its co-writer, Junior Parker, in 1953. When Elvis reinterpreted it, he infused it with his rockabilly touch, turning it into the iconic track we know today.
• Chart Performance: Elvis’s version reached number 11 on the national Billboard Country Chart, showcasing its crossover appeal!

My Baby Left Me

• Triple Threat: “My Baby Left Me” was recorded by Elvis just a day after recording his massive hits “Heartbreak Hotel” and “I Want You, I Need You, I Love You.” Talk about a productive day at the studio!

Tomorrow Is a Long Time

• Dylan’s Admiration: Bob Dylan, the original writer of the song, once mentioned in an interview that Elvis’s version of “Tomorrow Is a Long Time” was “the one recording I treasure the most.”

Trouble/Guitar Man

• Comeback Glory: This mashup was a significant part of Elvis’s ’68 Comeback Special, signaling his return to live performances after years focused on movie roles.

If You Talk in Your Sleep

• Genre Blend: This song showcases Elvis’s ability to incorporate funk into his repertoire. The beats and rhythm are a delightful departure from his more traditional rockabilly sound.

Moody Blue

• Unique Recording: Instead of the usual studio setup, “Moody Blue” was actually recorded in the Jungle Room of Elvis’s Graceland mansion!

Way Down

• Chart Memory: Released just weeks before Elvis’s passing in 1977, “Way Down” became a posthumous hit, climbing to number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Pledging My Love

• Radio Tribute: After the news of Elvis’s passing, many radio stations played “Pledging My Love” as a tribute to the King, marking the end of an era.

It’s Midnight

• Personal Resonance: Some believe that this song mirrored Elvis’s own emotional struggles during the mid-70s, especially in relation to his split with Priscilla Presley.

Separate Ways

• Art Imitating Life: Released after Elvis and Priscilla separated, “Separate Ways” was almost eerily reflective of their personal situation, making it one of the most heart-wrenching tracks in his discography.

Delving into the lesser-known tracks of Elvis reveals the depth and versatility of the King. His songs, both popular and underrated, are timeless gems, reflecting his unparalleled artistry.

Dive in, explore, and let the magic of Elvis serenade your soul!

Thanks for reading.

TBone