About The Song
Remember the early days of rock and roll? Before the electrifying stage presence, the sequined jumpsuits, and the screaming fans? Elvis Presley was a young man with a guitar, a dream, and a voice that could captivate a room. “Show Me (Make Me Know It)” offers a glimpse into this formative period, showcasing his raw talent and a yearning for connection.
Released in 1960 on the album Elvis Is Back!, “Show Me (Make Me Know It)” stands out from Elvis’s later, more polished recordings. Here, we hear a young Elvis, his voice brimming with youthful energy and a touch of vulnerability. The song itself is a bluesy rock and roll number, a genre that allowed Elvis to showcase his powerful vocals and his undeniable charisma.
The lyrics paint a picture of a man seeking reassurance in a budding romance. He pleads with his love interest to “‘Show me’, ‘Make me know it’, baby” that their feelings are mutual. Lines like “Is it just a dream or for real?” showcase the young Elvis’s insecurity and desire for validation, emotions that resonate with anyone who’s ever navigated the early stages of love. He delivers these lyrics with a touch of desperation and a hint of hope, his voice perfectly capturing the rollercoaster of emotions that come with new love.
Musically, the song complements the lyrics beautifully. A driving drumbeat lays the foundation, punctuated by Scotty Moore’s distinctive guitar riffs. The piano adds a layer of bluesy texture, further emphasizing the raw emotion of the song. There are no elaborate orchestral arrangements here. “Show Me (Make Me Know It)” is all about the power of Elvis’s vocals and the simple, yet powerful message of the lyrics.
“Show Me (Make Me Know It)” might not be a chart-topping hit, but it offers a glimpse into a young Elvis before the mega-stardom and the Las Vegas residency. It’s a reminder of his early potential, his ability to connect with listeners on a personal level, and a relatable exploration of emotions that would become a recurring theme in his music. So, put on your headphones, tap your toes, and let Elvis transport you back to a simpler time with “Show Me (Make Me Know It)”, a song that captures the raw yearning of a young heart seeking love’s confirmation.
Video