Elvis Presley, often hailed as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, was renowned for his ability to convey raw emotion through his music. One of the standout examples of his emotive prowess is the soulful ballad “It Hurts Me.” Released in 1964 as the B-side to his single “Kissin’ Cousins,” this lesser-known gem showcases Elvis at his most vulnerable, delivering a heartfelt performance that resonates with listeners to this day.
The Song’s Origins
“It Hurts Me” was penned by Joy Byers and Charles E. Daniels, two prolific songwriters of the era. The song’s lyrics delve into the pain and heartache of unrequited love, depicting the anguish of longing for someone who doesn’t reciprocate those feelings. Through poignant imagery and heartfelt expression, the song captures the bittersweet experience of love’s complexities.
Elvis’s Interpretation
Elvis Presley’s interpretation of “It Hurts Me” elevates the song to new heights, infusing it with his signature blend of passion and vulnerability. His soulful delivery conveys a depth of emotion that resonates with listeners on a visceral level. From the anguish in his voice to the subtle nuances of his phrasing, Elvis brings the song’s poignant lyrics to life with unmatched authenticity.
Did you know
- A B-side Hit: Despite being featured as the B-side to “Kissin’ Cousins,” “It Hurts Me” received considerable attention and acclaim. It managed to chart on its own, peaking at No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing Elvis’s enduring popularity and the song’s own appeal.
- Spanish Version: Elvis recorded a Spanish version of “It Hurts Me” titled “Me Duele Quererte.” Released in 1969, this version allowed Elvis to reach a broader audience and further solidified his status as an international superstar with multilingual appeal.
- Live Performances: Although “It Hurts Me” wasn’t a regular feature in Elvis’s live performances, he did include it in some of his concert sets, particularly during his Las Vegas residencies in the late 1960s and early 1970s. These live renditions showcased Elvis’s dynamic stage presence and his ability to connect emotionally with his audience.
Video
Lyrics
It hurts me to see him treat you the way he doesIt hurts me to see you sit and cryWhen I know I could be so trueIf I had someone like youIt hurts me to see those tears in your eyesThe whole town is talking, they’re callin’ you a foolFor listening to his same old liesAnd when I know I could be so trueIf I had someone like youHurts me to see the way he makes you cryYou love him so much, you’re too blind to seeHe’s only playing a gameBut he’s never loved youHe never willAnd darling, don’t you know he’ll never changeI know that he never will set you freeBecause he’s just that kind of guyBut if you ever tell him you’re throughI’ll be waiting for youWaiting to hold you so tightWaiting to kiss you goodnightYes, darling, if I had someone like you
