Introduction
“That’s the Way It Is” is a notable album by the legendary American singer and musician Elvis Presley, released in November 1970 under RCA Records. This twelfth studio album showcases a blend of both studio and live tracks, capturing Presley’s unique style during a pivotal era in his career. The album features eight studio recordings made at RCA Studio B in Nashville, alongside four live tracks captured during his engagement at The International Hotel in Las Vegas. While it accompanied the theatrical release of the documentary film “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is,” it is not categorized as a soundtrack album. The album achieved commercial success, peaking at number 21 on the Billboard 200 chart and reaching number eight on the country chart, eventually earning Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in 1973 and later being upgraded to Platinum in 2018.
Recording Process
The original vinyl LP for “That’s the Way It Is” consists of tracks recorded during marathon sessions in June 1970 at RCA Studio B. These sessions produced not only this album but also several singles and material for Presley’s earlier release, “Elvis Country.” The studio tracks were complemented by live performances recorded in August 1970 at The International Hotel, showcasing Presley’s dynamic stage presence. Notably, some songs were released ahead of the album; “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me” was made available as a single on October 6, 1970, with its B-side “Patch It Up” featuring a live rendition on the album. Additionally, “The Next Step Is Love,” which had been previously released as a B-side, was also included in a concert version.
Track Listing and Musical Content
The album’s track listing reflects a blend of different musical styles that marked Presley’s evolution as an artist. The studio tracks such as “Twenty Days and Twenty Nights,” “How the Web Was Woven,” and “Just Pretend” illustrate a shift towards a more polished pop sound, distancing itself from the raw energy of Presley’s earlier work influenced by American roots music. Critics have noted that while these songs were well-crafted and appealing, they catered more to mainstream tastes rather than showcasing the soulful essence that characterized much of his previous work.
Live Performances
The live segments of the album capture Presley performing with vigor and authenticity, reflecting his ability to engage with audiences despite having taken an extended break from live performances prior to 1968. Tracks like “I Just Can’t Help Believin’” not only demonstrate his powerful vocal delivery but also highlight his skillful adaptation to changing musical landscapes. The energy and enthusiasm exhibited in these performances played an essential role in solidifying Elvis’s status as a live performer during this period.
Critical Reception
<p"The critical reception of "That's the Way It Is" has been mixed. Music critic Robert Christgau assigned it a C+ rating, suggesting that while Presley demonstrated his ability to perform without reliance on cue cards, he had shifted towards an uptempo country ballad style that lacked the eclecticism found in his earlier works. Music historian John Robertson echoed this sentiment, noting that while Presley's authority as a vocalist masked some of the album's stylistic departures from its predecessors, it represented a move towards a more commercial sound that aligned with Las Vegas entertainment culture.
Industry Insights
Stephen Thomas Erlewine provided further analysis by stating that “That’s the Way It Is” occupies a confusing space in Presley’s discography. Although it shares its title with Denis Sanders’ documentary film about Elvis’s return to live performance, only one-third of the album consists of live recordings. The reliance on studio material contrasts sharply with the persona Presley was cultivating during this period, which was heavily influenced by show business aesthetics. Critics have pointed out that while these studio tracks are enjoyable, they do not capture the same vitality as the live performances included in the record.
Reissues and Legacy
Over the years, “That’s the Way It Is” has seen various reissues and special editions aimed at providing fans with more comprehensive insights into Elvis’s artistry during this era. In 2009, Follow That Dream released “The Wonder of You,” which included full concert footage from August 13, 1970. Furthermore, on July 6, 2012, a two-disc LP special edition was released featuring highlights from previous concert recordings along with different takes on several songs from the album.
Continued Relevance
The enduring appeal of “That’s the Way It Is” lies not only in its historical significance within Elvis’s career but also in its representation of a transitional phase for rock and pop music in general. Many fans still regard this album as essential listening to understand how Elvis navigated his comeback and reshaped his image amidst changing musical landscapes.
Conclusion
“That’s the Way It Is” serves as both an artistic statement and a reflection of Elvis Presley’s life during a transformative period in his career. By melding studio recordings with live performances, Presley crafted an album that encapsulated his struggles and triumphs as an artist striving to remain relevant in an evolving musical landscape. Despite mixed reviews upon its release, its legacy has grown over time through reissues and continued appreciation among fans and critics alike. As such, it remains an important chapter in Elvis’s storied discography—one that captures both his prowess as a performer and his journey through one of music history’s most dynamic eras.
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