About the Song
“Guitar Man,” released in 1968, marks a significant moment in Elvis Presley’s career, often seen as a crucial step in his artistic resurgence. Coming after a period heavily dominated by film soundtracks, this song, penned by the talented Jerry Reed, helped to re-establish Elvis’s connection with his roots in rock and country music.
The story of “Guitar Man” is intertwined with the narrative of Elvis’s own journey. By the late 1960s, after years in Hollywood, there was a yearning among fans and critics alike for Elvis to return to the raw energy and musical authenticity that defined his early success. Jerry Reed, a respected singer-songwriter and guitarist himself, crafted “Guitar Man” with a certain grit and storytelling that seemed perfectly suited for Elvis at this juncture.
The recording sessions for “Guitar Man” in 1967 and 1968 were reportedly energetic, with Elvis embracing the song’s narrative of a hardworking, traveling musician. The track features a distinctive, driving guitar riff played by Jerry Reed himself, which became an integral part of the song’s identity. This collaboration between Elvis Presley and Jerry Reedproved to be a potent combination, injecting a much-needed dose of contemporary country-rock into Elvis’s repertoire.
The release of “Guitar Man” coincided with Elvis’s iconic 1968 Comeback Special on NBC. This television event was meticulously planned to showcase Elvis’s return to live performance and to remind audiences of his musical prowess. “Guitar Man” was a key part of this revival, fitting perfectly with the image of a seasoned performer reconnecting with his musical passion.
While “Guitar Man” wasn’t Elvis’s biggest chart-topper, its impact was profound. It signaled a shift in his musical direction, paving the way for more roots-oriented albums like “From Elvis in Memphis.” The song resonated with audiences who appreciated Elvis’s ability to inhabit a character and deliver a compelling performance.
Furthermore, “Guitar Man” has had a lasting legacy, often covered by other artists and remaining a staple in discussions about Elvis’s later career highlights. It represents a moment of artistic reinvigoration, a time when Elvis Presley, with the help of a well-crafted song by Jerry Reed, reminded the world of his enduring musical talent and his deep connection to the heartland of American music. The song’s narrative of perseverance and dedication likely resonated with Elvis himself as he navigated this new phase of his career.