About The Song
Elvis Presley, the King, the man who brought rock and roll into your living room and shook your hips to the rhythm of a changing world. Today, we take a detour down memory lane, not to the electrifying early days of his career, but to a sun-drenched stop in 1963, where a charming melody and a touch of vulnerability await us in the song “How Would You Like to Be.”
Now, before you picture Elvis in his iconic leather jumpsuit, let’s rewind a bit. It’s 1963, and the King is experimenting. He’s starring in the romantic comedy “It Happened at the World’s Fair,” a film filled with cotton candy skies, Ferris wheel dreams, and a soundtrack that’s as sweet as spun sugar.
“How Would You Like to Be” is nestled right in the heart of this soundtrack, a gentle ballad that’s a far cry from the rockabilly fire we’re used to. But hold on, folks, this ain’t no mushy love song. This is Elvis, after all, and his charm shines through in every verse.
He starts off with a playful question, his voice a smooth drawl, asking us, “How would you like to be, walkin’ in my shoes?” It’s an invitation, a peek behind the curtain of the King’s world. We imagine the flashing lights, the screaming fans, the whirlwind of fame. But then, the song takes a turn.
Elvis, ever the sensitive soul, lets us see the cracks in the golden facade. He confesses, “I’d like to be alone, just for a little while.” He yearns for the quiet moments, the escape from the constant spotlight. It’s a relatable sentiment, even for those who haven’t tasted the limelight. We all crave a breath of normalcy, a moment to just be ourselves.
But the song doesn’t wallow in melancholy. Elvis, ever the optimist, reminds us that “evenin’ shadows make the mornin’ bright.” He finds solace in the simple things, the laughter of a child, the warmth of a loved one’s hand. And as the melody swells, his voice soars, reminding us that even in the midst of the whirlwind, there’s beauty to be found.
“How Would You Like to Be” is a song that transcends its time. It’s a glimpse into the heart of a man who, despite his larger-than-life persona, was just a guy longing for connection and a little peace. It’s a reminder that fame and fortune don’t always guarantee happiness, and that sometimes, the simplest things are the ones that truly matter.
So, whether you’re a lifelong Elvis fan or simply someone who appreciates a good melody and a touch of honesty, take a listen to “How Would You Like to Be.” Let yourself be transported back to a sun-drenched summer day, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself walking a little bit closer to the King’s heart.