Selecting the best of Elvis Presley songs from his immense and diverse catalog is a fascinating challenge. Often dubbed “The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Presley’s impact on music history is undeniable, spanning across multiple genres including rock and roll, country, R&B, gospel, and adult contemporary. His career was relatively short but packed with groundbreaking achievements and iconic performances that solidified his status as one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, Presley’s early musical influences were deeply rooted in the sounds around him: the gospel hymns of church, local hillbilly singers, and the diverse styles flourishing in Memphis, Tennessee, after his family moved there in 1948. Exposed to country, gospel, blues, and R&B, particularly from African-American musicians, Presley developed a unique sound. Despite a lack of formal training, he possessed an innate musicality and the ability to blend these varied influences. His career took off rapidly after an impromptu 1954 recording session yielded “That’s All Right,” a track that quickly gained local attention.
Over 23 years, from that first radio play to his final live performance in June 1977 with “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” Presley’s career was a whirlwind. He tragically passed away on August 16, 1977. In 1956, “Heartbreak Hotel” became his first major hit, followed by the controversial “Hound Dog” performance on “The Milton Berle Show.” His dynamic stage presence, especially his gyrating hips, sparked outrage among some adults but captivated a generation, cementing rock and roll’s rise.
Presley’s music successfully crossed over charts, hitting number one on Pop, Country, R&B, and Adult Contemporary lists. He even achieved a rare gospel song appearance on the Hot 100. His career is often divided into three phases: the raw, early rock and roll period; the post-Army era, which saw him mature his sound and focus heavily on films; and the comeback years, marked by a return to live performance. Between his 1956 hits and his Army deployment in 1958, he released a string of number one records and starred in commercially successful films like “Jailhouse Rock” and “Love Me Tender.” Following his return in 1960, his style softened slightly, favoring ballads and pop-rock tunes such as “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” and “It’s Now or Never.” The 1960s were dominated by his film commitments, appearing in 27 movies between 1960 and 1969. While some felt these formulaic films detracted from his music, Presley found his way back to live performance prominence through television, highlighted by his 1968 television special.
The “’68 Comeback Special” marked a significant return, showcasing Presley in black leather, performing with raw energy. His passionate renditions of hits, covers like Jimmy Reed’s “Baby What You Want Me to Do” (often confused with [elvis movie trouble song]), and a powerful presence reminded the world of his talent. The special was a massive success, leading to years of sold-out concert tours and acclaimed Las Vegas residencies, including the globally televised “Aloha from Hawaii” special in 1973.
Across studio, soundtrack, and live albums, Presley released approximately four dozen records during his lifetime. Fans often have different favorite eras – the young, hip-swiveling rocker; the charming movie star; or the powerful ballad singer in elaborate jumpsuits. What united these phases was Presley’s unparalleled ability to perform and inhabit a song, making it uniquely his own, even without formal training. While this list focuses on iconic hits, his vast catalog includes many [lesser known elvis songs] equally deserving of attention.
Compiling a list of the best of Elvis Presley songs requires balancing chart success, cultural significance, fan favorites, and his diverse musical styles. Here are 25 songs that represent the breadth and impact of The King. We’ve selected a mix of his most iconic and best-selling hits alongside lasting fan favorites, encompassing his various genres.
25. A Little Less Conversation (1968)
This energetic track, originally featured in his film “Live a Little, Love a Little,” was initially a minor hit. However, a 2002 remix by Dutch musician Junkie XL became a massive international success, introducing the song to a new generation and cementing its place in popular culture through widespread use in media.
24. Always on My Mind (1972)
Elvis Presley in a studio session, likely during the “Always on My Mind” recording periodRecorded shortly after his separation from Priscilla, Presley’s moving rendition of this popular ballad was a crossover success, charting significantly on Billboard’s Hot 100, Adult Contemporary, and Country charts. It remains one of his most cherished performances from the 1970s.
23. Memories (1969)
Penned by Mac Davis and Billy Strange for the “’68 Comeback Special,” this reflective tune captured the essence of looking back over the years. Released as a single the following year, its melancholic beauty is a notable highlight of Presley’s post-comeback recordings.
22. Are You Lonesome Tonight? (1960)
Elvis Presley on stage during a live performance, known for singing “Are You Lonesome Tonight?”Though decades old with several prior versions, Presley’s recording, recommended by Colonel Tom Parker, became an immediate post-Army success. Released in late 1960, it topped the Pop charts and reached Number 3 on the R&B charts, becoming a staple of his live shows and the definitive version for most listeners.
21. Return to Sender (1962)
This catchy song was specifically written for Presley’s movie “Girls! Girls! Girls!” Despite not fitting the initial script, producer Hal B. Wallis insisted it be included, leading to a rewrite. The song peaked at Number Two on Billboard’s Pop chart and Number Five on the R&B charts.
20. Crying in the Chapel (1965)
Elvis Presley performing “Crying in the Chapel”One of Presley’s most significant hits during the mid-1960s, “Crying in the Chapel” is a rare instance of a gospel recording making a major impact on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number three and spending seven weeks on the chart. It exemplifies his deep connection to gospel music, a genre distinct from his main [elvis presley rock songs]. This crossover moment highlights the broad appeal of his voice, whether delivering rock anthems or a heartfelt [elvis movie church song].
19. An American Trilogy (1972)
While composer Mickey Newbury’s original version charted higher, Presley’s powerful live performances, particularly in the documentary “Elvis on Tour” and the televised “Aloha from Hawaii,” amplified its success. This moving blend of “Dixie,” “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and “All My Trials” became a beloved and dramatic highlight of his concerts.
18. Burning Love (1972)
Elvis Presley performing “Burning Love” live, full of energyReleased in 1972, “Burning Love” was Presley’s 40th Top Ten hit on Billboard and his last to reach the chart’s upper echelons. It also marked his final true rock single, a departure from the ballads that characterized many of his later releases. Its raw energy harks back to his earlier, iconic [elvis presley rock songs].
17. In the Ghetto (1969)
A song notable for its social commentary, “In the Ghetto” became one of Presley’s biggest hits of his later career. Its international success provided him with his first Top Ten record in four years, peaking at number three in the United States.
16. Blue Christmas (1964)
Elvis Presley singing “Blue Christmas”While multiple versions existed prior, Presley’s rendition with the Jordanaires introduced subtle “blue notes” that made it distinctive. This melancholic ballad has become a holiday standard. Its enduring popularity is evident in its modern chart performance; streaming pushed Presley’s version to number 40 on the Billboard charts in 2019, decades after his death.
15. Blue Suede Shoes (1956)
Carl Perkins originally wrote and recorded this song, achieving a historic gold record as the first single to simultaneously chart on the Country, R&B, and Pop lists. Although Presley’s version didn’t chart quite as high, it eventually became one of his signature songs, often associated with his explosive entry into the music scene.
14. Little Sister (1961)
Elvis Presley performing “Little Sister”Released as the B-side to “(Marie’s the Name) His Latest Flame,” “Little Sister” proved equally successful, reaching Number Five on Billboard’s Hot 100 while its A-side peaked at Number Four. “Little Sister,” however, has maintained greater enduring popularity over time, with numerous artists covering it.
13. That’s All Right (1954)
During his fifth visit to Sun Studios, Presley, Scotty Moore, and Bill Black spontaneously reworked this Arthur Crudup song with an upbeat tempo. Producer Sam Phillips recorded the moment, and a local DJ played it the next day, launching Presley’s career. Though it never charted nationally, it is widely considered one of the first true rock ‘n’ roll records.
12. (Let Me Be) Your Teddy Bear (1957)
Elvis Presley singing “(Let Me Be) Your Teddy Bear”Featured in his second film, “Loving You,” this catchy tune became Presley’s third Number One pop hit in 1957. As one of his most commercially successful singles, it held the top spot for seven weeks and also reached Number One on the R&B Best Sellers List and the country charts.
11. Don’t Be Cruel (1956)
Released as a double A-side with “Hound Dog,” this single achieved remarkable chart dominance, holding the Number One position on the Pop charts longer than any other 45 record until 1992. “Don’t Be Cruel” also topped the Country and R&B charts and became one of his most popular and consistently performed songs throughout his career.
10. All Shook Up (1957)
Elvis Presley performing “All Shook Up”Another of his instantly recognizable hits, “All Shook Up” dominated multiple charts, topping the R&B and Country lists and spending 15 weeks in the Top Ten on Billboard’s Hot 100, including eight weeks at Number One. It was named Billboard’s Number One song of 1957 and remains a favorite for cover artists across genres, embodying the energetic spirit of his early [elvis presley rock songs].
9. Kentucky Rain (1970)
Released in early 1970, “Kentucky Rain” was an early hit for Presley in that decade, peaking at number 16 on the Pop charts. This soft rock ballad, telling the story of a man searching for his lost love through the rain, became a popular live performance piece and a fan favorite for its atmospheric quality.
8. How Great Thou Art (1967)
Elvis Presley singing the gospel hymn “How Great Thou Art”Despite his fame as “The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll” and pop superstar, Presley received most of his Grammy recognition in gospel categories. His powerful rendition of this beloved hymn earned him two Grammy Awards: Best Sacred Performance in 1967 and Best Inspirational Performance (Non Classical) in 1974, showcasing the genre he held closest to his heart, distinct from his more mainstream hits.
7. It’s Now or Never (1960)
Reportedly inspired by hearing Tony Martin’s “There’s No Tomorrow” (based on “O Sole mio”) while in the Army, Presley recorded his own version with new English lyrics. Included on his first album after his military service, this number one hit became his best-selling single worldwide and remains one of the best-selling singles of all time, showcasing his evolving sound post-Army. The period immediately following his return saw a shift in his movie choices and musical style, leading to films like [elvis presley gi blues movie] and a string of more mature pop hits.
6. Love Me Tender (1956)
Elvis Presley singing “Love Me Tender”Adapted from the Civil War ballad “Aura Lee,” this number one hit was written for Presley’s first feature film. His performance of the song on “The Ed Sullivan Show” just before the single and movie release generated massive pre-orders, making it a gold record before its official release and prompting 20th Century Fox to rename the film to match the song’s title.
5. Heartbreak Hotel (1956)
Presley’s first major hit, “Heartbreak Hotel,” was only the second single in history to chart on all three major Billboard lists (Pop, Country, and R&B), reaching number one on Country and Pop and the top five on R&B. It spent 27 weeks on the Top 100, earning him his first gold record and becoming the best-selling single of 1956. Its raw, bluesy sound was profoundly influential on countless future musicians, defining the emerging sound of [elvis presley rock songs].
4. Can’t Help Falling in Love (1961)
Elvis Presley performing “Can’t Help Falling in Love”Featured in his film “Blue Hawaii,” this romantic ballad reached Number Two on the Pop charts but became a deeply sentimental favorite for many fans. Presley adopted it as the closing song for his live shows from the late 1960s onwards, and it holds the distinction of being the last song he ever performed live, at his Indianapolis concert in June 1977.
3. Jailhouse Rock (1957)
Delivered with straight rock ‘n’ roll intensity despite its somewhat humorous lyrics, “Jailhouse Rock” was a number one hit across the Pop, Country, and R&B charts. The song’s iconic choreographed dance sequence from the film of the same name is one of Presley’s most enduring visual moments, solidifying his dual legacy in music and film history.
2. Suspicious Minds (1969)
Elvis Presley singing “Suspicious Minds”Written and originally recorded by Mark James, the song found little commercial success until Presley recorded it in 1969. This track became pivotal in revitalizing his career, following a period dominated by films. It was his first number one hit in seven years and, tragically, his last during his lifetime. A powerful performance piece in his live shows, “Suspicious Minds” is cited by many fans as their absolute favorite Elvis Presley The Best Of Elvis Presley Songs.
1. Hound Dog (1956)
Controversial upon its release and famous performance on “The Milton Berle Show,” “Hound Dog” is now recognized as a foundational piece of the rock ‘n’ roll genre. It was Presley’s biggest selling single, setting a record with 11 weeks at number one in 1956, a record that stood for 36 years. His hip-gyrating performance caused a sensation, polarizing generations but ultimately propelling rock and roll into the mainstream. “Hound Dog” has since been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and listed among “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll” by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
These 25 tracks offer a snapshot of the incredible range and enduring power of Elvis Presley’s music, showcasing why he remains one of the most beloved figures in entertainment history.
