''Stranger In The Crowd'' (ZPA4-1604) (Take 9 Overdubbed Master) (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) (10:00 PM - 1:00 AM) (1:30 AM - 4:30 AM)
Recorded Friday June 5, 1950 at RCA Studio B, Nashville, Tennessee

Name (Or. No of Instruments)
Elvis Presley - Vocal & Guitar
James Burton - Lead Guitar
Chip Young - Guitar
Charlie Hodge - Guitar
Jerry Carrigan - Drums
David Briggs - Piano (by mistake not mentioned on image)
Norbert Putnam - Bass Guitar
Charlie McCoy - Organ & Harmonica

Producer - Felton Jarvis
Recording Engineer - Al Pachucki

Overdubbed Later for Masters: (General)
James Burton (guitar), Harold Bradley (guitar), Jerry Carrigan (percussion), Farrell Morris (percussion & vibes),
David Briggs (organ) Weldom Myrick (steel guitar),Bobby Thompson (banjo), Buddy Spicher (fiddle),
Charlie McCoy (trumpet), George Tedwill (trumpet), Don Sheffield (trumpet), Glenn Baxter (trumpet),
Wayne Butler (saxophone), Norman Ray (saxophone), Gene Mullins (trombone), William Puett (flute & trombone), Skip Lane (flute, saxophone & clarinet)

Arrangers Bergen White, Gene Mullins, Don Tweedy and David Briggs
The Imperials consisting of Terry Blackwood, Roger Wiles, Jimmie Murrey, Armond Morales (backup vocal)
The Nashville Edition consisting of Dolores Edgin, Carol Montgomery, June Page, and
Winnefred Brest (backup vocals)
The Jordanaires consisting of Gordon Stoker, Neal Matthews, Hoyt Hawkins, and Ray Walker (backup vocals)
Millie Kirham, Temple Rise, Mary Green, Mary Holladay, Ginger Holladay, Sonja Montgomery (backup vocals)

"Stranger In The Crowd" is a song written for Elvis Presley by Winfield Scott for Elvis' 1970 album That's The Way It Is. Scott had previously co-written with Otis Blackwell a number of other songs for Elvis, including the hits "Return To Sender" and others. The song features an extended guitar solo by lead guitarist James Burton. A live version was released on disc three of the special edition version of the afore mentioned album. The video of this recording is contained on disc two of ''That's the Way It Is'' special features.

In the opening verses, Elvis sings about being trapped in a cycle of solitude. He stands on a corner, watching people pass by, yearning for connection. The repetition of quarter-hour times emphasizes his longing.
These lyrics evoke feelings of alienation and the desperate search for companionship. Many of us have felt like strangers in a crowd, seeking a genuine connection.

Amidst the gloom, a ray of hope shines through in the chorus. Elvis unexpectedly finds the stranger he had been searching for. His cup of love overflows, signifying overwhelming joy and fulfillment.
This section evokes a sense of serendipity and rediscovered faith in the possibility of love. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes, unexpected encounters can change our lives forever.

The fourth and fifth verses describe the blossoming of love following the chance encounter. Love found them on that same corner, challenging the notion that angels are only found in heaven.
''Stranger In The Crowd'' celebrates the transformative power of love, even when it emerges unexpectedly from the depths of loneliness.

In conclusion, this song is not only a beautiful melody but also a deep reflection on the human need for connection. It resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, regardless of their status or fame. Elvis Presley’s passionate vocals continue to captivate audiences, reminding us of the magic that can happen when strangers connect in unexpected ways.

Source and more information see: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

* - Digitally Remastered

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