Introduction
“Green Green Grass of Home” is a poignant country ballad penned by songwriter Claude “Curly” Putman Jr. in 1965. The song’s narrative follows a man returning to his childhood home, only to realize upon waking that it was a dream, and he is actually in prison awaiting execution. This twist adds a layer of melancholy to the otherwise nostalgic lyrics.
Elvis Presley recorded his version of the song on March 10, 1975, during sessions for his album Today, released on May 7, 1975. The track stands out in Presley’s catalog for its introspective tone, showcasing a softer, more reflective side of the artist. The arrangement features a blend of strings, acoustic guitars, and piano, creating a melancholic atmosphere that complements the song’s themes of longing and loss.
Presley’s rendition of “Green Green Grass of Home” was released as a single in the UK, where it achieved Top 30 status, and also received airplay in the United States. Notably, Presley was a fan of Tom Jones’ earlier version of the song and often requested it on the radio during his travels.
This track exemplifies Elvis’s versatility as an artist, transitioning from his signature rock and roll style to deliver a heartfelt ballad that resonates with themes of nostalgia and the passage of time.