Introduction
Elvis Presley – “I Feel So Bad”: A Bluesy Rock Classic Showcasing His Raw Emotion
“I Feel So Bad” is a blues song written and originally recorded by Chuck Willis in 1954. Willis’s version reached No. 8 on the Billboard Rhythm & Blues Chart that year.
Elvis Presley recorded his rendition of “I Feel So Bad” on March 12, 1961, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee. The song was released as a single on May 2, 1961, with “Wild in the Country” as the B-side. Presley’s version reached No. 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 15 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart. In the UK, the single reached No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart.
The song’s lyrics express feelings of inner turmoil and indecision, using metaphors such as “like a ball game on a rainy day” to convey disappointment and frustration. The narrator grapples with conflicting emotions, uncertain whether to stay or leave a situation, reflecting the complexities of relationships and personal choices.
“I Feel So Bad” showcases Presley’s ability to interpret and deliver blues music, highlighting his versatility as an artist. The song remains a notable entry in his discography, reflecting his continued exploration of diverse musical styles.
Video
Lyrics
“I Feel So Bad”
(Chuck Willis)
Feel so bad
Like a ball game on a rainy day
Feel so bad
Like a ball game on a rainy day
Yes’ I got my rain check
Shake my head and walk away
Oooo-people that’s the way I feel
Oooo-people that’s the way I feel
Sometimes I think I want
Then again I think I don’t
Sometimes I want to stay here
Then again I want to leave here
Then again I want to stay
Yes, I got my train fare
Pack my grip and ride away
Oooo-people that’s the way I feel
Oooo-people that’s the way I feel
Sometimes I think I want
Then again I think I don’t