Patty Loveless – I Try To Think About Elvis

Introduction

I still remember the first time I heard “I Try to Think About Elvis” on the radio. It was a lazy summer afternoon in the mid-90s, and my dad had the country station playing while we worked on his old truck in the garage. Patty Loveless’ voice cut through the static, her twangy sincerity pulling me in with a playful yet poignant story of distraction and longing. Little did I know then that this song, released in 1994, would become a small but vivid thread in the tapestry of country music history—a lighthearted gem that captured a moment and stuck with me all these years.

About The Composition

• Title: I Try to Think About Elvis
• Composer: Gary Burr (songwriter)
• Premiere Date: July 1994 (released as a single)
• Album/Opus/Collection: When Fallen Angels Fly
• Genre: Country

Background

“I Try to Think About Elvis” was penned by Gary Burr, a prolific songwriter known for his work with artists across genres, and brought to life by American country music star Patty Loveless. Released in July 1994 as the lead single from her album When Fallen Angels Fly, the song emerged during a vibrant period for country music, when the genre was balancing its traditional roots with a growing mainstream appeal. Loveless, already a respected figure in the industry, was inspired to record the track as part of an album that would later win the Country Music Association’s Album of the Year in 1995—an accolade that underscored her artistic peak. The song’s inception seems rooted in a whimsical take on distraction, with Burr crafting a narrative about trying to focus on anything—namely Elvis Presley—to avoid the pull of unrequited love. It hit the charts running, peaking at #3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles and Tracks chart in October 1994, and lingered for 20 weeks, signaling a warm reception from fans and critics alike. Within Loveless’ repertoire, it stands as a playful counterpoint to her more emotionally heavy ballads, showcasing her versatility.

Musical Style

The song is quintessential 90s country—bright, upbeat, and driven by a toe-tapping rhythm. Its structure follows a classic verse-chorus format, with a catchy hook that invites singalongs. Instrumentation includes twangy electric guitars, a steady drumbeat, and subtle steel guitar flourishes, all hallmarks of the era’s Nashville sound. Loveless’ vocal delivery is key: her clear, expressive tone dances between humor and heartache, giving the song its infectious charm. The arrangement is straightforward yet effective, leaning on repetition and a lively tempo to mirror the narrator’s futile attempts at distraction. It’s not groundbreaking in technique, but its simplicity amplifies its relatability, making it a standout earworm.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “I Try to Think About Elvis” are a delightful romp through a mind desperate to avoid romantic obsession. The narrator lists random thoughts—Elvis, rainbows, TV shows, even Spam—in a frantic bid to sidestep memories of a lover. Lines like “I try to think about Elvis / Memphis, Oprah in the afternoon” blend absurdity with everyday touchstones, creating a humorous yet universal tale of emotional evasion. The music’s upbeat bounce complements this lighthearted struggle, amplifying the contrast between the cheerful sound and the underlying ache. It’s a clever snapshot of how we all try (and often fail) to outrun our feelings.

Performance History

Since its release, “I Try to Think About Elvis” has been a staple in Loveless’ live performances, often met with enthusiastic crowd participation. Its music video, directed by John Lloyd Miller and premiered in mid-1994, added a visual layer with Loveless singing across quirky sets—like a talk show and a sky-high lift—enhancing its playful vibe. While not a fixture in the broader classical music canon (it’s firmly country), it’s earned a lasting spot in Loveless’ catalog. A notable cover by American Aquarium in 2021 on their album Slappers, Bangers, and Certified Twangers: Vol 1 brought it to a new generation, proving its staying power within the genre.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its chart success, “I Try to Think About Elvis” taps into a broader cultural fascination with Elvis Presley as an icon of distraction and Americana. Its tongue-in-cheek references resonate with the 90s trend of blending nostalgia with modernity, reflecting a society grappling with rapid change yet clinging to familiar touchstones. The song’s lightheartedness has made it a go-to for country playlists and a subtle influence on later artists exploring humor in heartbreak. Its appearance in media is less documented, but its spirit echoes in the casual, relatable storytelling that defines much of modern country.

Legacy

Thirty years on, “I Try to Think About Elvis” endures as a testament to Patty Loveless’ ability to marry wit with warmth. It’s not a grand opus, but its charm lies in its modesty—a snapshot of a moment that still feels fresh. For fans and performers, it’s a reminder of country music’s power to find depth in the everyday. Its relevance today lies in its universality: who hasn’t tried to distract themselves from something they can’t shake? It’s a small legacy, but a meaningful one, keeping Loveless’ voice alive in the genre’s history.

Conclusion

For me, “I Try to Think About Elvis” is more than a catchy tune—it’s a memory of simpler days and a nod to the quiet genius of Patty Loveless. It’s not profound, but it doesn’t need to be; its joy is in its honesty. I’d urge you to give it a spin—check out the original 1994 recording for its pure 90s vibe, or the American Aquarium cover for a modern twist. Let it take you back, or just make you smile. Either way, it’s worth the listen

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