Introduction
Suspicion by Elvis Presley: A Captivating Tale of Doubt and Heartache
“Suspicion” is a song written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, recorded by Elvis Presley on March 19, 1962, at RCA’s Nashville studios. Initially released as a track on his album Pot Luck, the song was not issued as a single at that time. In 1964, Terry Stafford, whose vocal style closely resembled Presley’s, recorded “Suspicion” and released it as a single. Stafford’s version became a significant hit, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and selling over a million copies . In response to Stafford’s success, RCA released Presley’s original version as a single, but it did not achieve the same commercial impact in the U.S., though it found success in various European markets
The song delves into themes of doubt and mistrust within a romantic relationship. The lyrics express the narrator’s inner turmoil and suspicion towards their partner’s fidelity, despite reassurances of love. Lines like “Every time you kiss me, I’m still not certain that you love me” and “Suspicion torments my heart” highlight the emotional conflict and the destructive nature of jealousy
Musically, “Suspicion” features a blend of pop and rock elements characteristic of early 1960s music. The recording includes contributions from notable musicians such as guitarists Harold Bradley and Scotty Moore, bassist Bob Moore, and pianist Floyd Cramer, among others . Despite its initial modest reception, Presley’s version of “Suspicion” has been recognized for its emotional depth and vocal performance, standing as a testament to his interpretive abilities.
Over the years, “Suspicion” has been appreciated for its exploration of complex emotional themes and remains a noteworthy entry in Elvis Presley’s extensive catalog.