About The Song
“I Was the One”, a song that takes us back to the electrifying early days of Elvis Presley. Released in 1956 as the B-side to his iconic “Heartbreak Hotel”, it showcases a different side of the young King of Rock and Roll. While “Heartbreak Hotel” pulsated with raw energy, “I Was the One” simmers with a bittersweet blend of regret and reflection.
This ballad, penned by songwriting team Aaron Schroeder, Bill Peppers, Claude Demetrius, and Hal Blair, allows Elvis to showcase his softer side, his voice taking on a vulnerability that resonates with listeners. The lyrics paint a picture of a love lost, a relationship that once seemed perfect crumbling unexpectedly. The narrator, presumably Elvis himself, expresses a mix of confusion and heartache, questioning who taught the love of his life the art of deception.
“I Was the One” is more than just a love song; it’s a window into the complexities of young love and heartbreak. It speaks to the universal experience of feeling blindsided by a relationship’s demise, questioning the lessons learned and the reasons behind the unexpected turn of events. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its raw honesty and the timeless emotions it evokes.
While not as commercially successful as its A-side counterpart, “I Was the One” holds a special place in the hearts of many Elvis fans. It serves as a reminder of the versatility of the young performer, showcasing his ability to not only deliver high-octane rock and roll but also connect with listeners on a more emotional level. So, put on your favorite record player, dust off that old vinyl, and let yourself be transported back to a simpler time as the opening notes of “I Was the One” fill the room. You’re sure to be captivated by the song’s timeless melody and Elvis’s heartfelt performance.