The Most Popular Elvis Song, Ranked

Choose the song you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 8, 2024 06:36
Enthusiasts of Elvis Presley’s music often find themselves engaged in discussions about which of his songs stands out as the most iconic. These conversations can vary widely from one group to another, influenced by personal memories and the unique emotional connections listeners have with specific tracks. Establishing a consensus on the most beloved Elvis song could serve not only as a fun engagement for his fans but also as a resource for new listeners seeking the definitive hits. By participating in this ranking, fans can contribute to a broader understanding of Elvis's musical impact, highlighting which songs resonate the most today. Each vote helps to shape a continuously updated list, reflecting real-time preferences across different demographics and backgrounds. This dynamic ranking allows Elvis's legacy to be celebrated in a communal and interactive way, offering a fresh perspective to ongoing discussions about his musical repertoire.

What Is the Most Popular Elvis Song?

  1. 1
    54
    votes
    This song was one of Elvis' biggest hits, spending 11 weeks at number one on the charts. It has become a classic rock and roll anthem, often associated with Elvis' signature dance moves.
    'Hound Dog' is a rock and roll song characterized by its energetic rhythm, catchy melody, and Elvis Presley's dynamic vocals. It was originally recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, but Elvis' version released in 1956 became one of his most successful and well-known songs.
    • Genre: Rock and Roll
    • Duration: 2 minutes and 17 seconds
    • Released: July 13, 1956
    • Label: RCA Victor
    • Chart Performance: Reached #1 on US Billboard Pop, Country, and R&B charts
  2. 2
    42
    votes

    Jailhouse Rock

    Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller
    Another iconic Elvis hit, this song was the title track of his third film. It has a catchy beat and memorable lyrics, making it a fan favorite.
    Jailhouse Rock is a rock and roll song that was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. It was recorded by Elvis Presley and released as a single in 1957. The song became highly popular and is considered one of Elvis Presley's most iconic hits. It is known for its catchy rhythm, energetic vocals, and lively lyrics. Jailhouse Rock was featured in the movie with the same name, further increasing its popularity. The song represents the rebellious spirit of rock and roll during that era and is often associated with Elvis Presley's influence on popular music.
    • Genre: Rock and roll
    • Release Date: September 24, 1957
    • Record Label: RCA Victor
    • Length: 2 minutes and 28 seconds
    • Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100
  3. 3
    32
    votes
    This romantic ballad is one of Elvis' most popular songs. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in several movies and TV shows.
    Can't Help Falling in Love is one of the most popular songs by Elvis Presley, often considered an iconic love ballad. It was released in 1961 as part of the soundtrack for the film Blue Hawaii. The song showcases Presley's smooth vocals accompanied by a gentle arrangement of piano, strings, and a strumming acoustic guitar. Can't Help Falling in Love is known for its heartfelt lyrics and melodic simplicity, evoking a sense of romantic vulnerability and tenderness.
    • Release date: 1961
    • Album: Blue Hawaii (Soundtrack)
    • Genre: Pop, Ballad
    • Songwriters: Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore, George David Weiss
    • Length: 3:02
  4. 4
    11
    votes

    Suspicious Minds

    Elvis Presley
    This song was Elvis' last number one hit and is often cited as one of his best performances. It has a powerful chorus and showcases Elvis' vocal range.
    Suspicious Minds is a popular song by Elvis Presley, released in 1969. It is considered one of his most successful and iconic tracks, known for its energetic and soulful sound. The song was written by Mark James and produced by Chips Moman.
    • Release Date: 1969
    • Genre: Rock and Roll
    • Duration: 4 minutes and 23 seconds
    • Album: From Elvis in Memphis
    • Label: RCA Records
  5. 5
    23
    votes

    Blue Suede Shoes

    Carl Perkins
    Written by Carl Perkins, this song was covered by Elvis and became a hit on the charts. It has since become a classic rock and roll song, with its catchy lyrics and upbeat tempo.
    Blue Suede Shoes is a classic rock and roll song, originally written and recorded by Carl Perkins. The song was later popularized by Elvis Presley, who recorded his own version in 1956. It is widely regarded as one of his most iconic songs.
    • Year of Release: 1956
    • Genre: Rock and Roll
    • Length: 2 minutes and 1 second
    • Album: Single release, later included in the album 'Elvis Presley' (1956)
    • Record Label: Sun Records
  6. 6
    13
    votes
    This song was a number one hit for Elvis in 1957. It has a catchy melody and fun lyrics, making it a popular song at parties and dance events.
    All Shook Up is a classic rock and roll song that was made popular by Elvis Presley in 1957. It is known for its energetic and catchy rhythm, and it has become one of the most iconic songs in Elvis's repertoire. The song describes the feeling of being completely infatuated and shaken up by love.
    • Release Date: March 22, 1957
    • Genre: Rock and Roll
    • Album: All Shook Up
    • Label: RCA Victor
    • Length: 1:57
  7. 7
    5
    votes

    Heartbreak Hotel

    Elvis Presley
    This song was Elvis' first number one hit on the charts. It has a haunting melody and powerful lyrics, making it a memorable song in Elvis' career.
    Heartbreak Hotel is a famous rock and roll song performed by Elvis Presley. It was released in 1956 as a single and later included in Presley's debut album. The song is about a lonely, heartbroken man who finds solace in a hotel for the broken-hearted. It became a huge hit and is considered one of Elvis Presley's signature songs.
    • Genre: Rock and roll
    • Year of Release: 1956
    • Album: Elvis Presley
    • Length: 2:08
    • Record Label: RCA Victor
  8. 8
    4
    votes
    This song was featured in Elvis' film of the same name and became a hit on the charts. Its romantic lyrics and slow tempo make it a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions.
    Love Me Tender is a timeless ballad that is considered one of Elvis Presley's most popular songs. It was originally written as the theme for the 1956 movie of the same name, and has since become an iconic love song. The tender and heartfelt lyrics combined with Elvis's smooth vocals make it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences today.
    • Release Date: September 28, 1956
    • Genre: Rock and Roll, Ballad
    • Length: 2 minutes and 41 seconds
    • Label: RCA Records
    • Film Connection: Love Me Tender (1956)
  9. 9
    12
    votes

    Don't Be Cruel

    Elvis Presley
    This song was a number one hit for Elvis in 1956. It has a catchy melody and upbeat tempo, making it a classic rock and roll song.
    Don't Be Cruel is a popular rock and roll song performed by Elvis Presley. It is known for its catchy melody and energetic vocals, making it one of Elvis' signature songs. The lyrics convey a plea for kindness and understanding in relationships. The song was released in 1956 and quickly became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard charts. Its popularity contributed to Elvis' rise to stardom in the early years of his career.
    • Genre: Rock and roll
    • Release Year: 1956
    • Chart Performance: Reached number one on the Billboard charts
    • Duration: 2 minutes and 3 seconds
    • Writer: Otis Blackwell
  10. 10
    1
    votes
    In the Ghetto
    Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

    In the Ghetto

    Elvis Presley
    This song was a departure from Elvis' usual style, addressing social issues and poverty. It became a hit on the charts and is often cited as one of Elvis' most powerful performances.
    In the Ghetto is a poignant and socially conscious song by Elvis Presley. Released in 1969, it tells the story of a young boy named Jimmy who grows up in the poverty-stricken inner city and ultimately meets a tragic fate. The song sheds light on the cycle of poverty and crime that continues to affect countless lives. With its haunting melodies and emotive lyrics, In the Ghetto remains one of Elvis's most iconic and enduring songs.
    • Genre: Rock
    • Release Date: 1969
    • Album: From Elvis in Memphis
    • Songwriters: Mac Davis
    • Recording Location: American Sound Studio, Memphis, Tennessee

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Ranking factors for popular song

  1. Chart performance
    Consider the song's performance on music charts, such as the Billboard Hot 100, as well as its peak position and weeks spent on the charts.
  2. Sales
    Take into account the number of copies sold, including physical sales (vinyl, cassette, CD) and digital downloads.
  3. Streaming statistics
    In the modern era, streaming numbers from platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube also provide a measure of a song's popularity.
  4. Radio airplay
    How often a song was played on radio stations, both during the time of its release and in the years since, can indicate its popularity.
  5. Awards and accolades
    Songs that received prestigious awards, like Grammys, or were honored in industry lists, such as Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time," may have a higher popular ranking.
  6. Pop culture impact
    Consider how the song has been featured in movies, TV shows, commercials, or covered by other artists, which can contribute to its popularity.
  7. Fan feedback
    Engage with Elvis fans through online forums, social media, or at fan events and gauge which songs resonate with them the most.
  8. Longevity
    A song's popularity can be measured by how well it has endured over time, continuing to receive airplay and recognition many years after its initial release.
  9. Significance within Elvis's career
    Some songs may be more popular due to their importance in Elvis's career – for example, his first hit, his comeback single, or songs that showcased a new style.
  10. Personal preferences
    When creating a personal ranking, it's essential to factor in your own tastes and preferences, as music appreciation is often a subjective experience.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Elvis song. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or song is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1868 views
  • 196 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each song once every 24 hours. The rank of each song is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular elvis song

Elvis Presley is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and beloved musicians of all time. Known as the "King of Rock and Roll," he had a career that spanned over two decades and produced countless hits that are still loved and listened to today. One question that has remained a topic of discussion among Elvis fans is what his most popular song is. With a discography that includes over 700 songs, it can be difficult to determine which one tops the charts. However, through various polls and rankings, we can get a better idea of which Elvis song is the ultimate fan favorite. So, sit back, relax, and let's take a closer look at the most popular Elvis songs of all time.

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