Introduction
“G.I. Blues” is a song recorded by Elvis Presley for the 1960 film of the same name, marking his return to entertainment following his military service in Germany. Written by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, the song was recorded on April 27–28, 1960, at RCA Studio in Hollywood, with takes 7 and 10 spliced together to form the vocal master.
The film “G.I. Blues” was Presley’s first movie after his discharge from the U.S. Army and was directed by Norman Taurog. The movie, which also starred Juliet Prowse, was filmed at Paramount Pictures studio, with some pre-production scenery shot on location in West Germany while Presley was stationed there. The U.S. Army supplied tanks and vehicles for the filming, and appointed public information officer John J. Mawn as technical advisor for the film.
The song “G.I. Blues” was included in the soundtrack album of the same name, released in October 1960. The album topped the Billboard Top Pop Album chart and was certified gold on March 13, 1963, and platinum on March 27, 1992, by the Recording Industry Association of America.
In some countries, “G.I. Blues” was released as a single or as part of an EP. For example, in Japan, it was released as a 7-inch single with “Doin’ The Best I Can” as the B-side. In Belgium, the song reached number 8 on the charts in 1961.
“G.I. Blues” reflects the playful themes of the film, which centers around American soldiers stationed in Europe, showcasing the lighter side of army life. The song features a catchy, swinging rhythm and playful lyrics, designed to appeal to a wide audience. It contributed significantly to the success of the soundtrack, which spent weeks at number one and became one of Elvis’s best-selling albums.
Overall, “G.I. Blues” is remembered as a fun and vibrant piece that represents a transitional phase in Elvis’s career, balancing his roots in rock and roll with the broader appeal of Hollywood. This period laid the groundwork for his evolving persona and enduring legacy as a pop culture icon.