Elvis Presley’s Version of “You Ask Me To” Proves The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll Is a Dedicated Artist

The song “You Asked Me To”, co-written by Billy Joe Shaver and Waylon Jennings, was recorded by The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll at Stax Records in Memphis in 1973, subsequently appearing on Elvis’ posthumous album six years later Presley’s “Guitar Man” in 1981, which charted Top US in the United States.

Because Elvis’ cover of the Jennings and Shaver song was not a single, it did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100. However, the parent album, ‘Promised Land’, reached number 47 on the Billboard 200. The album even reached number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. the British charts.

When Elvis Presley’s rendition of “You Ask Me To” was released on his 40th birthday via his 1975 album “Promised Land,” Elvis and songwriter Billy Joe Shaver unknowingly shared a musical bond, even though they had never met.

This version of the song was more produced than co-writer Waylon Jennings’ version of the song when he recorded it for his “Honky Tonk Heroes” album the same year. While both interpretations are moving, Presley was more accurate and recorded several takes of the song – something Shaver sees as a sign of a “truly dedicated artist.” This version became one of Elvis Presley’s biggest hits.

When Elvis performed “You Ask Me To,” he did so in Jennings’ style, reflecting their bond. The first time they met, Elvis called Jennings “Hillbilly,” which was also mentioned in Jennings’ autobiography.

In an interview with Rolling Stone, Shaver says he admired Elvis even though other people didn’t like him. He thought Elvis was great, especially when he found out that The King would do songs repeatedly. For Shaver, anyone who “cares that much must be a good person.”

Listen to Elvis Presley’s rendition of chart-topping “You Ask Me To” in the video below.