Introduction:
While Elvis Presley is synonymous with electrifying rock and roll anthems, his repertoire also ventured into the realm of introspective ballads. “Suspicion”, released in 1962, showcases this facet of the King’s artistry, capturing the vulnerability and torment of an insecure lover.
Composed by the songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, “Suspicion” is a mid-tempo ballad driven by a simple yet effective guitar line and a steady drumbeat. The melancholic melody perfectly complements the introspective lyrics, which delve into the protagonist’s gnawing doubts about his lover’s fidelity. Lines like “Every time you kiss me I’m still not certain that you love me” and “Every time you call me and tell me we should meet tomorrow, I can’t help but think that you’re meeting someone else tonight” paint a vivid picture of a relationship plagued by insecurity.
Elvis’s signature vocals deliver the emotional weight of the song. He employs a subdued yet expressive tone, conveying the protagonist’s anguish and yearning for reassurance. The backing vocals by The Jordanaires add a layer of harmony and depth, further amplifying the emotional resonance. “Suspicion” was produced by Chet Atkins, a legendary figure in country music who also played a pivotal role in shaping Elvis’s early career. Atkins’s production style, known for its focus on clean instrumentation and powerful vocals, is evident in “Suspicion”, allowing the song’s emotional core to shine through.
Despite its introspective nature, “Suspicion” possesses a certain charm. The catchy melody and Elvis’s charismatic delivery prevent the song from becoming overly sentimental. Interestingly, “Suspicion” wasn’t initially released as a single in the U.S. It appeared on the 1962 compilation album “Pot Luck” and garnered a modest following among Elvis’s fans.
However, the song’s journey took an unexpected turn in 1964. Country singer Terry Stafford released a cover of “Suspicion” that became a major hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This success prompted RCA Records to finally release Elvis’s version as a single in the U.S., but it failed to replicate Stafford’s achievement.
While “Suspicion” didn’t become a chart-topping hit for Elvis, it holds a significant place in his vast discography. It showcases his versatility as a performer, his ability to deliver nuanced emotions, and the enduring appeal of introspective ballads within his rock and roll persona. The song continues to resonate with fans who appreciate a different side of the King, one that explores themes of vulnerability and insecurity alongside his trademark charisma.
Video:
Lyrics:
Every time you kiss me, I’m still not certain that you love meEvery time you hold me, I’m still not certain that you careThough you keep on saying you really, really, really love meDo you speak the same words to someone else when I’m not thereSuspicion torments my heartSuspicion keeps us apartSuspicion why torture meEvery time you call me and tell me we should meet tomorrowI can’t help but think that you’re meeting someone else tonightWhy should our romance just keep on causing me such sorrowWhy am I so doubtful whenever you are out of sightSuspicion torments my heartSuspicion keeps us apartSuspicion why torture meDarling, if you love me, I beg you wait a little longerWait until I drive all these foolish fears out of my mindHow I hope and pray that our love will keep on growing strongerMaybe I’m suspicious ’cause true love is so hard to findSuspicion torments my heartSuspicion keeps us apartSuspicion why torture me