Introduction
Elvis Presley’s “It Hurts Me”: A Hidden Gem of Heartache and Hope
Released on February 10, 1964, as the B-side to the more commercially successful “Kissin’ Cousins,” Elvis Presley’s “It Hurts Me” stands as a poignant ballad that showcases a deeper, more vulnerable side of the King of Rock and Roll. Recorded on January 12, 1964, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, the song was penned by Joy Byers and Charlie Daniels, though producer Bob Johnston later revealed he had written songs attributed to his wife, Joy Byers, including this one.
The lyrics delve into the emotional turmoil of witnessing a loved one endure mistreatment, with the narrator expressing a desire to provide the affection and respect they deserve. Lines like “It hurts me to see him treat you the way he does” resonate with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of helplessness and longing.
Despite its heartfelt message and Presley’s soulful delivery, “It Hurts Me” peaked at number 29 on the U.S. charts, overshadowed by its A-side counterpart. Notably, this recording marked the beginning of a 28-month period during which Presley focused solely on movie soundtracks, stepping away from non-film music projects.
The song experienced a resurgence when Presley re-recorded it for his 1968 NBC Comeback Special, reintroducing it to audiences and reaffirming its emotional depth. Over the years, “It Hurts Me” has been featured in various compilations, including the 2001 BMG/RCA release “The 50 Greatest Love Songs,” and has been covered by artists like Johnny Hallyday and Marco Tulio Sánchez.
While it may not have achieved the commercial success of some of Presley’s other hits, “It Hurts Me” remains a testament to his versatility and ability to convey profound emotion through music.