Introduction
Released on June 18, 1963, by RCA Victor, “(You’re the) Devil in Disguise” stands as one of Elvis Presley’s most intriguing singles . Written by the prolific trio Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, and Florence Kaye, the song was recorded during the May 26, 1963 session at Nashville’s famed RCA Studio B . What began as material for a full album was released as standalone singles and later included in the 1968 compilation Elvis’ Gold Records Volume 4 .
Musically, the track blends rock‑and‑roll energy with pop polish. Elvis delivers a playful yet scathing narrative: beneath a seemingly angelic facade lies a cunning “devil in disguise.” The lyrics—“You look like an angel… but I got wise”—capture the juxtaposition of attraction and betrayal . The production is enriched by backing vocals from The Jordanaires and Millie Kirkham, with bass singer Ray Walker notably echoing the phrase “Oh, yes, you are” in a lower pitch, symbolizing the devil’s presence. The instrumental lineup includes Scotty Moore and Grady Martin (guitars), Floyd Cramer (piano), Bob Moore (double bass), D.J. Fontana and Buddy Harman (drums), and Boots Randolph (percussion)
Upon release, the song soared to No. 3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and No. 9 on the R&B chart, marking Elvis’s final Top‑10 R&B entry . Internationally, it became a No. 1 hit in the UK—despite John Lennon dismissing it as “a miss” and likening Elvis to “Bing Crosby” . The single also topped charts across Canada, Finland, France, the Netherlands, and elsewhere, and earned a gold certification in the U.S. for over 500,000 sales .
Beyond its original chart success, “Devil in Disguise” has enjoyed enduring life: featured in films like Lilo & Stitch (2002), covered by artists from Trisha Yearwood to punk band The Misfits, and celebrated via official animated videos released in the 2020s
This vibrant single captures Elvis in transition—still rooted in rock & roll yet embracing polished pop sensibilities—while showcasing sharp songwriting, bold production choices, and cultural resonance that have kept it alive for decades.