Patty Loveless – I Try to Think About Elvis: A Spirited Ode to Escaping Heartache
Patty Loveless’s I Try to Think About Elvis is a vibrant, playful country hit that masterfully balances humor and heartbreak. Released in 1994 as the lead single from her acclaimed album When Fallen Angels Fly, the song stands out as one of Loveless’s most spirited performances, showcasing her vocal dexterity and her ability to weave emotional depth into even the most whimsical storytelling.
Written by Gary Burr, the track paints a vivid picture of someone desperate to distract themselves from the agony of a lost love. Loveless’s narrator resorts to thinking about anything and everything—Elvis Presley, cosmic theories, and even the latest Hollywood gossip—to avoid the pain of their heartbreak. The sheer absurdity of her distractions adds a layer of humor that offsets the underlying sadness, creating a song that is as relatable as it is entertaining.
Musically, the song is an upbeat, toe-tapping number with traditional country instrumentation. The twang of the guitars, steady rhythm, and Loveless’s crystal-clear voice bring an infectious energy to the track. Her delivery is impeccable—she captures the song’s wit with a knowing wink while maintaining the emotional weight of the story. It’s this duality that makes Loveless a standout artist: her ability to bring levity to sorrow without losing authenticity.
The lyrics are packed with clever imagery and references, from the titular Elvis to “the big bang theory,” making the song both timeless and uniquely quirky. This creative songwriting invites listeners to reflect on their own attempts to distract from heartache, finding solace in the shared experience of trying to outrun pain with humor and imagination.
Released during a period when Loveless was solidifying her place as a country music powerhouse, I Try to Think About Elvis became a major hit. It climbed to number three on the Billboard Hot Country Singles and Tracks chart, holding steady for 20 weeks and earning Loveless widespread acclaim for her vibrant performance. The track was part of When Fallen Angels Fly, an album that would go on to win the CMA Album of the Year, further cementing her legacy in the genre.
The song’s enduring charm lies in its universality and Loveless’s spirited delivery. It’s a testament to her ability to take a lighthearted concept and infuse it with genuine feeling, turning it into a song that resonates deeply with fans. Whether you’re laughing at the absurdity of the distractions or feeling the ache of heartbreak in her voice, I Try to Think About Elvis is a quintessential Patty Loveless track—fun, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
Decades later, the song remains a cherished favorite in Loveless’s repertoire, a reminder of her talent for blending wit, emotion, and undeniable charm. It’s a lively anthem for anyone who’s ever tried to think about anything but the one thing that’s breaking their heart./