Introduction
“A Big Hunk o’ Love” is a classic rock ‘n’ roll song by Elvis Presley, recorded and released in 1959. Written by Aaron Schroeder and Sid Wyche, the song was created during a significant period in Elvis’s career, as he had been drafted into the U.S. Army and stationed in Germany. However, during a two-week break in June 1958, Elvis returned to RCA Studio B in Nashville, where he recorded several tracks, including this upbeat, high-energy song. Released as a single on June 23, 1959, it quickly climbed the charts, eventually reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
Musically, “A Big Hunk o’ Love” is a lively track that captures the essence of rock ‘n’ roll with its bold rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and Elvis’s signature vocal style. The song is often celebrated for its raw energy and spirited performance, features that made it resonate with audiences who were eager for more Elvis music while he was away on military duty. It was recorded with several of his regular session musicians, including guitarist Hank Garland and drummer D.J. Fontana, who helped create its distinctive sound.
“A Big Hunk o’ Love” holds a unique place in Elvis’s discography, as it showcases his commitment to his music despite being pulled away by his service obligations. Its success reaffirmed his status as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll” and reassured fans that his talent and charisma remained undiminished. The song became one of the standout rock tracks of the late ’50s and continues to be appreciated as a lively and quintessential example of Elvis Presley’s impact on popular music.