Introduction
“Return to Sender” is a 1962 hit single recorded by American singer Elvis Presley and published by Elvis Presley Music. The song was written by Winfield Scott and Otis Blackwell. Recorded on March 27, 1962, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, it is about a man mailing a letter to his girlfriend after an argument. She continually writes “return to sender” and he keeps receiving the letter with various reasons for returning to sender, including “address unknown” and “no such person”. He keeps mailing letters, refusing to believe the relationship is over. Presley performed “Return to Sender” in the film Girls! Girls! Girls!
The song achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart during the Christmas season of 1962 and peaking at number two on the US Billboard Hot 100, held back from the top spot by The Four Seasons’ “Big Girls Don’t Cry” .
“Return to Sender” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s versatility and enduring appeal, blending heartfelt storytelling with a catchy melody. Its legacy endures, capturing the essence of early 1960s pop culture and the timeless nature of unrequited love.