Introduction:
Revving Up for “The Love Machine”: Elvis Presley in Easy Come, Easy Go
Elvis Presley’s “The Love Machine” isn’t a chart-topping ballad, but it’s a fun relic from a specific era in the King’s career. Here’s a look at the song’s history and its place in Presley’s filmography:
The Movie Connection: “The Love Machine” was recorded in 1966 specifically for the Elvis Presley film “Easy Come, Easy Go.” This was part of a string of Hollywood musicals Presley made throughout the 1960s. While not critical darlings, these films were commercially successful and kept Elvis’s face in front of the audience. “Easy Come, Easy Go” tells the story of a beachcomber who inherits a fortune and contends with gold diggers.
Songwriting Team: The songwriting credits for “The Love Machine” go to Chuck Taylor, Fred Burch, and Gerald Nelson. This trio wasn’t part of Presley’s usual stable of collaborators, but they delivered a song that fit the light-hearted vibe of the film.
Recording in Hollywood: On September 29th, 1966, Elvis and his band, including Scotty Moore and D.J. Fontana, headed into Paramount Studios in Hollywood to lay down the track. “The Love Machine” has a playful energy, driven by a steady backbeat and punctuated by Charlie McCoy’s harmonica.
A Soundtrack Spark: “The Love Machine” wasn’t released as a single but appeared on the soundtrack EP for “Easy Come, Easy Go.” These soundtrack releases were a way to capitalize on the film’s popularity and offer fans a taste of the musical moments.
Legacy of “The Love Machine”: “The Love Machine” isn’t one of Presley’s most iconic songs, but it captures a specific time in his career. It’s a fun, energetic track showcasing his charisma within the formulaic Hollywood films of the era. So, crank up the volume and get ready for a dose of 1960s Elvis with “The Love Machine.”