Unleashing the Elements: Carole King’s “I Feel the Earth Move”
In the landscape of early 70s music, few songs have managed to capture the zeitgeist as vividly as Carole King‘s “I Feel the Earth Move.” Featured on her iconic album Tapestry, this track not only showcases King’s formidable songwriting prowess but also marks a defining moment in the era of singer-songwriters. Upon its release, it was paired as a double A-sided single with “It’s Too Late,” creating a formidable force that dominated the charts in 1971.
The song debuted to an enthusiastic audience, quickly ascending to number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on June 19, 1971, where it impressively held the top spot for five consecutive weeks. Across the pond, it also achieved a peak position of number 6 in the United Kingdom, signaling King’s global appeal. This upbeat track was selected by Ode Records as the A-side to the album’s first single, reflecting its initial favor among disc jockeys and listeners. However, its counterpart, “It’s Too Late,” eventually garnered more airplay, showcasing the unique duality and appeal of the double-sided hit.
“I Feel the Earth Move” embodies a powerful mixture of lyrical expressiveness and vibrant piano melodies, a testament to King’s mastery of pop music dynamics. Music critics like Jon Landau from Rolling Stone highlighted King’s vocal versatility on the track, moving from “raunchy” to “soothing,” effectively mirroring the song’s energetic and compelling progression. Harvey Kubernik recognized the song as a brave and sexually assertive piece, standing out on an album otherwise characterized by its mellow confessional style.
The song’s lyrical content, paired with King’s performance, paints a vivid picture of romantic and physical excitement. James Perone particularly noted the clever use of syncopated rhythms which align with the lyrics, enhancing the emotional and musical impact. The accentuation on “tumbling down” in the melody cleverly mirrors the lyrical imagery, providing a “musical equivalent of a tumble.” This, combined with the fast tempo, immerses the listener in the singer’s exhilaration and emotional turbulence associated with love.
The production, led by Lou Adler, also plays a crucial role in the song’s success. Adler’s decision to foreground King’s piano skills rather than a more traditional guitar-led arrangement brought a fresh dynamic to the song, setting it apart from the prevalent musical trends and emphasizing a more intimate and personal sound.
In recognition of its cultural impact, the song, alongside “It’s Too Late,” was named by the RIAA as number 213 of 365 Songs of the Century, further cementing its place in music history. “I Feel the Earth Move” remains a quintessential example of Carole King’s ability to blend personal storytelling with universal appeal, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with listeners across generations.