Introduction
“Return to Sender” is a song recorded by Elvis Presley on March 27, 1962, at Radio Recorders studio in Hollywood. The track was written by the renowned songwriting duo Otis Blackwell and Winfield Scott, who had previously crafted hits like “Don’t Be Cruel” and “All Shook Up” for Presley. Originally intended for the soundtrack of the film “Girls! Girls! Girls!”, the song was added at the last minute after Blackwell presented it to Colonel Tom Parker, Elvis’s manager, who recognized its potential and insisted on its inclusion.
Musically, “Return to Sender” is an upbeat pop and rock and roll song featuring a prominent saxophone riff played by Boots Randolph, a departure from Presley’s typical guitar-driven sound. The recording session also included contributions from guitarist Scotty Moore, pianist Dudley Brooks, and backing vocals by The Jordanaires.
Upon its release on October 2, 1962, with “Where Do You Come From” as the B-side, “Return to Sender” achieved significant commercial success. In the United States, it reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, held from the top spot by The Four Seasons’ “Big Girls Don’t Cry.” The song also secured the number one position on the UK Singles Chart, becoming the UK’s Christmas number one in 1962.
In “Girls! Girls! Girls!”, Elvis performed “Return to Sender” with energetic choreography, showcasing his signature charisma. The song’s narrative centers on a man attempting to reconcile with his estranged lover through letters, only to have them returned unopened, marked with phrases like “Return to sender” and “No such number.” This storyline resonated with many listeners, contributing to the song’s enduring popularity.
Over the years, “Return to Sender” has remained a staple in Elvis Presley’s discography, celebrated for its catchy melody and relatable lyrics. Its legacy was further cemented when, in 1993, the U.S. Postal Service issued a commemorative Elvis stamp, prompting fans to mail letters to fictitious addresses to receive them back marked with “Return to sender,” echoing the song’s theme.
Today, “Return to Sender” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s enduring impact on popular music and culture, exemplifying his ability to blend compelling storytelling with engaging musical arrangements.