The Impact of Elvis Presley as a Co-Writer in the Music Industry During the 1950s

In the years 1956 to 1957, Elvis Presley was credited as a co-writer on several iconic songs, despite not being involved in the actual writing process. Notable tracks include 'Heartbreak Hotel', 'Don't Be Cruel', and all four songs from his debut film, including the title track 'Love Me Tender'. Other songs credited to him during this period are 'Paralyzed' and 'All Shook Up'. This situation arose largely due to the actions of his manager, Colonel Parker, who failed to register Presley with major musical licensing organizations such as ASCAP and BMI. This oversight ultimately denied Presley the opportunity to earn songwriter royalties, which could have provided him with a significant annuity. However, Presley did contribute to the songwriting of two songs: he provided the title for 'That's Someone You Never Forget' (1961), written by his friend Red West, and collaborated with West and guitarist Charlie Hodge on 'You'll Be Gone' (1962). These contributions highlight the complexity of Presley's relationship with songwriting and the music industry during his early career. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #ElvisPresley #Songwriting #MusicHistory #HeartbreakHotel #Ascap