Introduction
“Return to Sender” is a notable track in Elvis Presley’s illustrious career, blending catchy melodies with relatable storytelling. Released on October 2, 1962, the song was part of the soundtrack for the film “Girls! Girls! Girls!” It was penned by the accomplished songwriting duo Winfield Scott and Otis Blackwell, who had previously crafted hits like “Don’t Be Cruel” and “All Shook Up” for Presley.
The inspiration for “Return to Sender” came from a returned demo tape that Scott and Blackwell had sent out, which bore the postal markings “Return to sender! No such person! No such zone!” This sparked the idea for a song about a man attempting to reconcile with his partner through letters, only to have them consistently returned unopened.
The recording session took place on March 27, 1962, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. Presley was joined by his regular band members, including Scotty Moore on guitar, D.J. Fontana on drums, and The Jordanaires providing backing vocals. Notably, Boots Randolph’s baritone saxophone riff became a defining element of the track, adding a distinctive musical hook.
Upon its release, “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.” In the United Kingdom, the song climbed to number one on the Singles Chart and became the Christmas number one for 1962. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) later certified the single as platinum, recognizing over one million units sold in the U.S.
“Return to Sender” stands out not only for its melodic appeal but also for its reflection of early 1960s pop culture and the universal theme of unrequited love. Its enduring popularity underscores Elvis Presley’s impact on music and his ability to convey complex emotions through his performances.