Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, captivated the world with his unforgettable voice, charismatic performances, and legendary hits. His music defined an era and forged rock and roll into a revolutionary cultural force. This article counts down Elvis’ 10 most iconic and beloved songs that have stood the test of time. From early rockers like “Hound Dog” to tender ballads like “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” Elvis demonstrated his versatility and vocal mastery across genres. Relive the magic of classics like “Jailhouse Rock,” “Suspicious Minds,” and “Don’t Be Cruel” that made Elvis a household name. More than just hit singles, these songs encapsulated musical and cultural movements, showcasing Elvis as a true legend who will forever be remembered through his timeless music.
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1. Hound Dog
Hound Dog was released in 1956 and is one of Elvis Presley’s most iconic songs. It was originally written and recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, but Elvis’ rock and roll version made it a huge hit. His energetic performance featured him strumming furiously on an acoustic guitar while delivering aggressive vocals. The lyrics describe a womaniser who is referred to as a “hound dog.” Elvis added his own spin with his dynamic voice and charismatic persona. The song topped the Billboard pop, country and R&B charts in 1956. It sold over 10 million copies globally and is one of the best-selling singles of all time. Hound Dog embodied the new rock and roll sound and defiant attitude of the 1950s youth culture. Elvis’ sexy hip swivelling choreography in his live performances thrilled his fans and outraged critics. The song and Elvis himself became a symbol of the moral panic that rock and roll music was causing in conservative America. But for Elvis’ legions of fans, Hound Dog epitomised the exciting new era of rock and roll. Decades later, it remains one of the most iconic and influential songs in popular music history.
2. Jailhouse Rock
Jailhouse Rock was the title track of Elvis Presley’s 1957 movie of the same name. Released as a single in 1957, it hit number one on the Billboard pop charts and was Elvis’ final number one hit of the 1950s. It is one of his most famous songs and encapsulated the rebellious rock and roll attitude of his early career. The lyrics describe someone who is headed to jail but plans on entertaining the inmates with his musical abilities. Elvis’ energetic vocal delivery and the song’s distinctive electric guitar riff helped make it an instant classic. The accompanying music video featuring Elvis dancing with other inmates is considered one of the first true music videos. Jailhouse Rock appeared in one of Elvis’ most successful films and its popularity endures today both as an iconic Elvis song and as a celebration of rock and roll. It was even selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Recording Registry for its cultural significance. With its anthemic chorus, snarling vocal and driving beat, Jailhouse Rock demonstrated how Elvis Presley helped turn rock and roll into a worldwide phenomenon.
3. Can’t Help Falling in Love
Can’t Help Falling in Love was released in 1961 as part of the soundtrack for Elvis Presley’s film Blue Hawaii. It quickly became one of his most beloved ballads. The song has a sweeping romantic melody and lyrics about the inevitability of falling in love. Elvis delivers a heartfelt vocal performance that showed his versatility beyond his early rock songs. Can’t Help Falling in Love was a crossover hit, reaching number two on the pop charts and number one on the Easy Listening charts. Its sentimental yet sincere words struck a chord with audiences. Elvis often used it to close his concerts in the 1970s, turning it into an intimate singalong with fans. It ended up being the last song he ever performed live in 1977. Can’t Help Falling in Love has been covered by numerous artists over the decades and remains an enduring classic of the pop canon. It is one of Elvis’ most recognizable hits and a staple of romantic song playlists. The tender expression of giving oneself over completely to love is elegantly captured in this beautiful ballad.
4. Suspicious Minds
Suspicious Minds was released in 1969 and became Elvis Presley’s final number one single in the U.S. while he was still alive. After Elvis’ career stagnated in the 1960s making formulaic movies and albums, Suspicious Minds marked a major comeback for him both critically and commercially. It was his first significant hit in years and also his longest charting single, spending over 30 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. The song has a distinctive Memphis soul sound and highlights Elvis’ powerful vocal range. The lyrics describe painful suspicion in a relationship where both lovers feel the end is approaching. Elvis’ raw, emotional performance reflected his renewed personal investment in his music during his live comeback phase. While the melodramatic song may not seem revolutionary, Elvis’ soulful delivery and producer Chips Moman’s slick production breathed new life into Elvis as a seminal force in American popular music. The song’s iconic status was affirmed when it received a Grammy Hall of Fame Award. Decades later, Suspicious Minds remains one of Elvis Presley’s most enduring and recognizable songs.
5. Heartbreak Hotel
Heartbreak Hotel, released in 1956, is considered one of the original rock and roll songs. It was Elvis Presley’s first number one pop hit and sold over a million copies. The dark, brooding lyrics tell the story of a man who checks into a hotel after having his heart broken. Elvis’ dramatic baritone vocals evoke the raw emotion and despair conveyed in the words. His echoing voice chillingly repeats the line “I get so lonely” over sparse instrumentation. Heartbreak Hotel perfectly captured the rebellious tone of early rock and roll and came to embody Elvis’ image as a dangerous, sensual rocker. It shocked mainstream audiences with its overtly sexual energy. Elvis’ live television performances of the song further enhanced the provocative nature of his act. Heartbreak Hotel was one of the key singles that helped bring rock and roll into the mainstream consciousness. It showed how Elvis didn’t just cover songs, he could convey a bold attitude through his revolutionary singing style. The song’s huge commercial success affirmed Elvis as a star who greatly appealed to American teenagers eager to break free from the repressive social norms of the era.
6. Love Me Tender
Love Me Tender was the title track of Elvis Presley’s first film, released in 1956. The song has a gentle country melody adapted from the Civil War era tune “Aura Lee.” Elvis sings tender lyrics expressing unwavering devotion and affection to a lover. It became his first number one on the Billboard pop charts. Love Me Tender showcased Elvis’ versatility from rock and roll to heartfelt ballads. His earnest, understated performance results in a sweeping sentimental power. For a young generation experiencing the thrill and difficulties of romantic relationships, it touching captured the overwhelming desire to love and be loved. Decades later, Love Me Tender remains a beloved classic for anniversaries, weddings and Valentine’s Day dedications. It affirmed Elvis as more than just a hip-swivelling rocker by displaying a sensitive, genuine passion in his voice. The iconic song title itself went on to be used as the name for his fan club and its associated charity. Love Me Tender stands as one of Elvis Presley’s most romantic and emotive ballads.
7. Are You Lonesome Tonight?
Are You Lonesome Tonight? is a haunting ballad that was a hit for Elvis in 1960. The song has its roots in a 20’s Tin Pan Alley tune but Elvis’ version popularized it for a new generation. His spoken word delivery alternating with soaring vocals helped create an intimate, melancholic mood. The lyrics speak of regret over a lost love and longing to know if they are also lonely. Elvis delivers the words in a hushed yet emotional style that builds drama and tension. By the end, his powerful singing evokes a soulful mourning. The song showcased Elvis’ ability to take an old standard and make it feel contemporary with his personal touch. It became his first and only single to reach number one on the pop, R&B and country charts. Are You Lonesome Tonight? is widely considered one of Elvis’ finest vocal performances. Its nostalgic, lovelorn spirit has resonated with audiences for decades and affirmed Elvis’ reputation as The King of Rock and Roll who could master any type of song.
8. Teddy Bear
Teddy Bear, released in 1957, is one of Elvis Presley’s most famous early rock and roll ballads. It was featured on his album Loving You and also performed in his 1957 film of the same name. The song has playful lyrics describing a sweetheart who is cuddly as a teddy bear. Elvis sings in warm honeyed tones about being enamored with his “baby” who he loves to hold tight. The light swinging melody features Elvis’ backing vocalists cooing and humming along in a lilting fashion. Teddy Bear marked a stylistic shift from Elvis’ earlier rougher rockers towards a softer pop sound. It helped broaden his appeal with a song that expressed innocent puppy love sentiments in the simplicity of the 1950s era. Teddy Bear spent an impressive seven weeks at number one on the Billboard pop charts. Elvis’ charming performance matched the cute, cuddly lyrics and resulted in one of his most beloved hits. It exemplified his ability to appeal to young romance in a sweet relatable way that defined his image as the first teen idol.
9. Blue Suede Shoes
Blue Suede Shoes, released in 1956, is one of Elvis Presley’s most recognizable and enduring hits. He recorded a version of the Carl Perkins rockabilly song that became his first number one on national R&B and country charts. Elvis puts his own spin on the lyrics about not stepping on the singer’s blue suede shoes. His energetic vocal take features his trademark enthusiastic delivery and echoing phrases. The fast-paced rhythm of the shuffling beat and jangly guitars make Blue Suede Shoes instantly catchy and memorable. Elvis’ live performances often featured him dancing playfully while singing the song. The bluesy rockabilly style defined his early image as the King of Rock and Roll who could get pulses racing with his rebellious charisma. Decades later, Blue Suede Shoes remains deeply associated with Elvis as one of the pioneering powerhouse hits that helped turn rock and roll into a national phenomenon. It still sounds as fresh and exciting as it did in 1956 when Elvis Presley first put his blue suede shoes on the musical map.
10. Don’t Be Cruel
Don’t Be Cruel was Elvis Presley’s biggest hit song, topping the Billboard pop, country and R&B charts in 1956. It was the first single to go platinum and became one of the best selling singles of all time. The playful lyrics about trying to please a girl were brought to life by Elvis’ flirtatious vocal delivery. He sings in a conversational yet syncopated way, showcasing his ability to make corny sentiments come across as genuine. Don’t Be Cruel was Elvis’ return to music after being conscripted in the army and showed he hadn’t lost his energetic charm. Hound Dog is featured on the B-side, making this single one of the most legendary double A-sided hits ever. Elvis’ joyful, passionate singing on Don’t Be Cruel demonstrated why he was topping the charts and breaking hearts. It exemplified his fun-loving persona and knack for conveying affectionate sentiments in an earnest style. Six decades later, Don’t Be Cruel remains the quintessential Elvis Presley hit and a defining song of the early rock and roll era.