“Elvis Presley – (You’re The) Devil in Disguise: The Story Behind the Hit”

Introduction

Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” left an indelible mark on the world of music, and one of his lesser-known gems, “(You’re The) Devil in Disguise,” is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal. Released in 1963, this catchy tune is a hidden treasure in Elvis’s discography. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history and significance of “(You’re The) Devil in Disguise” and why it deserves more recognition.

The History of “(You’re The) Devil in Disguise”

“(You’re The) Devil in Disguise” was written by Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, and Florence Kaye. Recorded on May 26, 1963, this song represents a shift in Elvis’s musical style. It is a departure from the rock ‘n’ roll sound he was known for in the 1950s, embracing a more mature and polished approach. The song was released as a single and reached the top of the charts in the United Kingdom.

The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who falls in love with a woman, only to discover that she’s not what she seemed to be—a devil in disguise. The catchy chorus, “You’re the devil in disguise, oh yes, you are,” is instantly memorable, and Elvis’s velvety voice conveys the emotions of heartbreak and betrayal.

Significance of “(You’re The) Devil in Disguise”

  1. Musical Evolution: “(You’re The) Devil in Disguise” represents Elvis’s transition from his early rock ‘n’ roll sound to a more mature, sophisticated style. The song’s arrangement features a prominent horn section and a driving beat, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
  2. Elvis’s Vocal Mastery: Elvis’s performance in this song is a testament to his vocal prowess. His voice effortlessly conveys the emotions of betrayal and heartache, and his ability to switch between rock ‘n’ roll and the more refined style of this song demonstrates his range as a singer.
  3. Lyrically Relatable: The theme of someone hiding their true nature in a relationship is something many people can relate to. The song’s lyrics capture the pain of being deceived in love, making it an emotionally resonant track.
  4. Cult Following: Despite not being one of Elvis’s most well-known songs, “(You’re The) Devil in Disguise” has a devoted fan base. It’s a song that showcases a different side of Elvis, one that appeals to those who appreciate the depth and maturity of his later work.

Conclusion

“(You’re The) Devil in Disguise” by Elvis Presley is a hidden gem that showcases his musical evolution and vocal mastery. It’s a departure from the energetic rock ‘n’ roll tunes he’s best known for but stands as a testament to his versatility and timeless appeal. The catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and Elvis’s emotive performance make this song a must-listen for fans old and new. While it might not be as famous as some of his other hits, “(You’re The) Devil in Disguise” is a reminder that Elvis Presley’s musical legacy is filled with delightful surprises waiting to be discovered.

VIDEO

Lyrics

You look like an angel (look like an angel)Walk like an angel (walk like an angel)Talk like an angelBut I got wise
You’re the devil in disguiseOh, yes, you are, devil in disguise
You fooled me with your kissesYou cheated and you schemedHeaven knows how you lied to meYou’re not the way you seemed
You look like an angel (look like an angel)Walk like an angel (walk like an angel)Talk like an angelBut I got wise
You’re the devil in disguiseOh, yes, you are, devil in disguise
I thought that I was in heavenBut I was sure surprisedHeaven help me, I didn’t seeThe devil in your eyes
You look like an angel (look like an angel)Walk like an angel (walk like an angel)Talk like an angelBut I got wise
You’re the devil in disguiseOh, yes, you are, devil in disguise
You’re the devil in disguiseOh, yes, you are, devil in disguiseOh, yes, you are, devil in disguiseOh, yes, you are, devil in disguiseOh, yes, you are, devil in disguise

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