Introduction:
“Mary in the Morning” is a tender ballad that has been interpreted by various artists, including the legendary Elvis Presley. The song was originally penned by American songwriter and record producer Michael Rashkow and singer Johnny Cymbal. It was first brought to prominence by Al Martino in 1967, whose rendition topped the Easy Listening chart for two weeks in July of that year and reached number twenty-seven on the Billboard Hot 100.
Elvis Presley recorded his version of “Mary in the Morning” on June 5, 1970, during a series of productive sessions at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville. These sessions, which took place over five days starting on June 4, 1970, yielded a substantial number of tracks that showcased Elvis’s versatility and commitment to his craft.Elvis’s rendition of “Mary in the Morning” was subsequently included in his album “That’s the Way It Is,” released on November 11, 1970.
“That’s the Way It Is” is a unique project in Elvis’s discography, blending studio recordings with live performances. The album served as a soundtrack to the documentary film of the same name, which captured Elvis’s return to live performances in Las Vegas. While the film focuses on his dynamic stage presence, the album provides a more intimate look at his musical explorations during this period. “Mary in the Morning,” as featured on the album, is a studio recording that highlights Elvis’s ability to interpret and convey deep emotion through his vocal delivery.
The genre of “Mary in the Morning” can be classified as traditional pop, characterized by its melodic structure and sentimental lyrics. Elvis’s interpretation adds a soulful depth to the song, reflecting his ability to infuse personal emotion into his performances. The lyrics depict a man’s profound affection for his partner, cherishing the simple yet intimate moments they share, particularly in the quiet of the morning. This theme of appreciating everyday beauty and love resonates through Elvis’s heartfelt delivery.
Although Elvis’s version of “Mary in the Morning” did not achieve significant chart success upon its release, it remains a noteworthy entry in his extensive catalog. The song showcases his willingness to explore and reinterpret existing material, bringing his unique style and emotional depth to each performance. In the documentary “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is,” he is seen rehearsing the song at the International Hotel in Las Vegas in August 1970, indicating his intention to incorporate it into his live repertoire, though it is not documented whether he performed it live during his concerts in the 1970s.
Over the years, “Mary in the Morning” has been included in several compilations and re-releases, allowing new generations of listeners to appreciate this lesser-known gem. The song stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s versatility as an artist and his ability to connect with a wide range of musical styles, from rock and roll to heartfelt ballads. His rendition of “Mary in the Morning” continues to be appreciated by fans and serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy in the world of music.