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Uncovering the Magic of Elvis' 'Blue Hawaii' Sessions with FTD

In 1961, Elvis Presley was at the height of his fame, having just returned from his military service and ready to dive back into his music career. One of the most iconic projects he undertook during this time was the soundtrack for his movie 'Blue Hawaii,' which would go on to become one of the best-selling albums of his career. The 'Blue Hawaii' sessions, recently released on the Follow That Dream (FTD) label, offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind this beloved album.

The Context

'Blue Hawaii' was Elvis' eighth movie, and it marked a significant departure from the more dramatic roles he had been taking on. This lighthearted romantic comedy, set in the beautiful Hawaiian islands, was the perfect vehicle for Elvis' charisma and charm. The movie's soundtrack, featuring a mix of romantic ballads, upbeat rock 'n' roll numbers, and traditional Hawaiian tunes, was an instant hit, staying at the top of the Billboard charts for 20 weeks.

The Sessions

The 'Blue Hawaii' sessions took place in March 1961 at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. Elvis, accompanied by his trusted band, including Scotty Moore on guitar, D.J. Fontana on drums, and the Jordanaires on backing vocals, spent several days laying down tracks for the soundtrack. The sessions were marked by a sense of fun and experimentation, with Elvis and his band trying out new arrangements and ideas.

The FTD Release

In recent years, the FTD label has been dedicated to releasing Elvis' music in a way that's both faithful to the original recordings and provides new insights into his creative process. The 'Blue Hawaii' sessions release is no exception. This 3-CD set contains an astonishing 77 tracks, including alternate takes, demos, and unreleased material.

The first CD features the original album, including the hit singles 'Can't Help Falling in Love' and 'Rock-a-Hula Baby.' The subsequent discs delve deeper into the sessions, offering alternate takes and unreleased tracks that showcase Elvis' remarkable vocal range and emotional depth. Highlights include a stunning rendition of 'Hawaiian Wedding Song,' a beautiful ballad that Elvis recorded for his wife, Priscilla, and a funky, instrumental take on 'Beach Boy Blues.'

Inside the Music

One of the most fascinating aspects of the 'Blue Hawaii' sessions is the way they capture Elvis' ability to blend different musical styles. From the swinging rhythms of 'Rock-a-Hula Baby' to the lush, orchestral arrangements of 'Can't Help Falling in Love,' Elvis' music is characterized by its eclecticism and sense of adventure. The sessions also highlight the importance of Elvis' band, which provided the singer with a solid foundation for his experiments.

Conclusion

The 'Blue Hawaii' sessions release on FTD is a must-have for any Elvis fan or music enthusiast. This incredible collection of tracks offers a unique glimpse into the creative process behind one of Elvis' most beloved albums, and sheds new light on the singer's remarkable talent and musical innovation. So, sit back, relax, and let the warm, sunny sounds of 'Blue Hawaii' transport you to a bygone era of rock 'n' roll glamour and Hawaiian paradise.