About the song
“Fever” as interpreted by Elvis Presley is a captivating and subtly sensual rendition of a song that has been embraced by various artists across genres. While the song was originally a hit for Little Willie John, Presley’s 1960 version brought a unique and understated cool to the track, showcasing a different facet of his vocal abilities. It’s more than just a popular song; it’s a masterclass in minimalist arrangement and suggestive delivery.
The song’s lyrics, co-written by Eddie Cooley and John Davenport (though often credited to Otis Blackwell), use the metaphor of a rising temperature to describe the intoxicating and consuming nature of love. Presley’s vocal delivery, marked by its low, breathy tone and deliberate phrasing, enhances the song’s subtle sensuality and inherent drama. He doesn’t belt or shout; instead, he whispers and croons, drawing the listener into an intimate and almost clandestine atmosphere.
Elvis Presley’s vocal style in “Fever” is a departure from his more energetic rock and roll performances. Here, he demonstrates remarkable control and a keen understanding of nuance. His delivery is confident yet vulnerable, suggesting a smoldering passion just beneath the surface. The iconic finger snaps and the sparse instrumentation, typically featuring a stand-up bass providing a rhythmic pulse, create a stark and uncluttered backdrop that allows Presley’s voice and the suggestive lyrics to take center stage. This minimalist approach is a key element of the song’s enduring appeal.
The arrangement of “Fever” in Presley’s rendition is particularly noteworthy for its simplicity and effectiveness. The absence of drums and the prominent use of the finger snaps create a unique and memorable rhythmic foundation. The walking bass line adds a touch of cool sophistication, further enhancing the song’s understated sensuality. This stripped-down approach allows the listener to focus on the intimacy of Presley’s vocal performance and the evocative nature of the lyrics.
“Fever” in Elvis Presley’s hands becomes a sophisticated and subtly powerful exploration of desire. It’s a testament to his versatility as an artist and his ability to command attention with a performance that is both understated and intensely engaging. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its timeless depiction of love’s intoxicating power, delivered with a cool confidence that remains utterly captivating.
Video
Lyrics
Never know how much I love you
Never know how much I care
When you put your arms around me
I get a fever that’s so hard to bearYou give me fever when you kiss me
Fever when you hold me tight
Fever in the morning
Fever all through the nightSun lights up the daytime
Moon lights up the night
I light up when you call my name
And you know I’m gonna treat you rightYou give me fever when you kiss me
Fever when you hold me tight
Fever in the morning
Fever all through the nightEv’rybody’s got the fever
That is something you all know
Fever isn’t such a new thing
Fever started long agoRomeo loved Juliet
Juliet she felt the same
When he put his arms around her
He said ‘Julie, baby, you’re my flame
Thou giv-est fever when we kisseth
Fever with the flaming youth
Fever I’m on fire
Fever yea I burn for sooth’Captain Smith and Pocahantas
Had a very mad affair
When her daddy tried to kill him
She said ‘Daddy, o, don’t you dare
He gives me fever with his kisses
Fever when he holds me tight
Fever, I’m his misses
Oh daddy, won’t you treat him right’Now you’ve listened to my story
Here’s the point that I have made
Cats were born to give chicks fever
Be it Fahrenheit or centigrade
They give you fever when you kiss them
Fever if you live and learn
Fever till you sizzle
What a lovely way to burn
What a lovely way to burn
What a lovely way to burn
