Introduction:
“Devil in Disguise” is a rock and roll song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1963. Written by Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, and Florence Kaye, the song was released as a single and quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Known for its catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and Elvis’s dynamic vocals, “Devil in Disguise” embodies the spirit of 1960s rock music. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a romantic encounter with a deceptive lover, warning against falling for appearances and superficial charm.
Did you know?
- “Devil in Disguise” was recorded during Elvis’s sessions at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee, on May 26, 1963.
- The song’s distinctive guitar riff was played by renowned session guitarist Scotty Moore, adding to its energetic and memorable sound.
- “Devil in Disguise” was Elvis’s 25th single to reach number one on the UK Singles Chart, solidifying his popularity overseas.
- In the United States, the song peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and spent 11 weeks in the Top 40.
- Elvis’s performance of “Devil in Disguise” on The Ed Sullivan Show helped propel the song to greater success, introducing it to a wider audience.
- The song’s title and lyrics are based on the idiom “wolf in sheep’s clothing,” which refers to someone who appears harmless or innocent but is actually deceitful or dangerous.
- “Devil in Disguise” has been covered by various artists over the years, including The Cramps, Cliff Richard, and Trisha Yearwood.
- Elvis performed the song in several of his films, including “Spinout” (1966), where he sang it during a drag race scene.
- Despite its success, “Devil in Disguise” marked a shift in Elvis’s musical style towards a more polished sound, reflecting the evolving trends of the 1960s music scene.
- The song remains a favorite among Elvis fans and continues to be celebrated for its infectious energy and timeless appeal.