Introduction:
‘Always on My Mind’ has remained a timeless love song that has been covered by many artists over the years.
Elvis Presley was the first artist to have a substantial hit with it, and it remains one of his most loved songs to this day.
But what is the story behind the song? Who sang it first? Who wrote it? Find out all you need to know below:
1. It was first recorded by Gwen McCrae in 1972
Originally a soul ballad titled ‘You Were Always On My Mind’, the song was written by Johnny Christopher, Mark James and Wayne Carson. Brenda Lee recorded her own version soon after.
2. What was it about and how was it written?
This song tells the story of someone who admits that they didn’t always do the things they should have to show appreciation for their partner, but wants them to know they was always thinking about them.
Co-writer Wayne Carson (pictured) said that he wrote most of the song in 10 minutes at his kitchen table in Springfield, Missouri.
He held on to the song for just over a year, and was finishing a recording session when producer Chips Moman asked about recording “that mind” song, but added it needed a bridge.
Wayne went upstairs to figure it out, when Johnny and Mark walked in the door, and he asked for their help to complete his song. Between them, the two-line “tell me…” bridge was added.
3. How did Elvis get hold of it?
