Old Shep – Elvis – 1956

About The Song

I must correct the information provided. “Old Shep” was not recorded by Elvis Presley in 1956. It was, in fact, recorded by Elvis Presley in 1956 but wasn’t officially released until 1976. Here are the corrected details:

“Old Shep” is a poignant and sentimental song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1956 but officially released posthumously in 1976 on the album “Elvis: A Legendary Performer Volume 1.”

Five facts about “Old Shep – Elvis – 1956”:

Original Recording: Elvis Presley recorded “Old Shep” in 1956 when he was just 21 years old. The song was written by Red Foley in 1933 and has been covered by various artists over the years.
Sentimental Theme: “Old Shep” tells the heart-wrenching story of a boy and his dog, exploring themes of loyalty, friendship, and the inevitability of loss. It’s a departure from Elvis’s more upbeat and energetic rock and roll hits.
Posthumous Release: While the song was recorded in 1956, it wasn’t officially released until 1976 on the album “Elvis: A Legendary Performer Volume 1,” a compilation that featured rare and unreleased tracks.
Country Influence: “Old Shep” reflects Elvis’s early country and blues influences. His emotive delivery and the acoustic arrangement contribute to the song’s timeless and nostalgic quality.
Other Versions: The song “Old Shep” had been previously recorded by Red Foley and several other artists, but Elvis’s rendition stands out as a heartfelt interpretation that resonates with the emotional depth of the lyrics.

Video

Lyrics

When I was a lad
And old Shep was a pup
Over hills and meadows we’d stray
Just a boy and his dog
We were both full of fun
We grew up together that way

I remember the time at the old swimmin’ hole
When I would have drowned beyond doubt
But old Shep was right there
To the rescue he came
He jumped in and then pulled me out

As the years fast did roll
Old Shep, he grew old
His eyes were fast growing dim
And one day the doctor looked at me and said
“I can do no more for him, Jim”

With hands that were trembling
I picked up my gun
And aimed it at Shep’s faithful head
I just couldn’t do it, I wanted to run
I wish they would shoot me instead

He came to my side and looked up at me
And laid his old head on my knee
I had struck the best friend a man ever had
I cried so I scarcely could see

Old Shep, he has gone where the good doggies go
And no more with old Shep will I roam
But if dogs have a heaven there’s one thing I know
Old Shep has a wonderful home