About the song
**Elvis Presley**’s **”Return to Sender” (1962)** is a classic gem that stands as one of the most memorable hits in the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s legendary career. Written by the dynamic songwriting duo **Otis Blackwell** and **Winfield Scott**, the song blends humor, storytelling, and an irresistible melody that captures the charm and energy of early rock and roll. Blackwell, in particular, was a frequent collaborator with Elvis, having also written iconic hits like “Don’t Be Cruel” and “All Shook Up,” which helped define the sound of an era.
Recorded in March 1962 at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, **”Return to Sender”** was released as a single in October of the same year. The track was included in the soundtrack for Elvis’s 1962 film **”Girls! Girls! Girls!”**, adding an upbeat and lighthearted moment to the movie’s musical lineup. The song tells a playful yet relatable story about unreciprocated love, where a man sends letters to his beloved only to have them consistently returned unopened, stamped with the now-famous phrase “Return to Sender.”
Musically, the track features a strong rhythm-and-blues influence, with infectious saxophone riffs played by **Boots Randolph**, backed by the iconic **Jordanaires**, who provided rich vocal harmonies. Elvis’s performance strikes the perfect balance between sincerity and humor, making the song both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
Upon its release, **”Return to Sender”** achieved massive commercial success. It climbed to **No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100** in the United States and became a chart-topping hit internationally, including reaching **No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart**. The song’s catchy rhythm and clever lyrics resonated with listeners worldwide, earning it a place as one of Elvis’s most enduring hits.
Today, **”Return to Sender”** is remembered as a showcase of Elvis’s unparalleled charisma and his ability to make any song come alive. It’s a track that embodies the charm, wit, and musical innovation that made Elvis Presley a cultural icon. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, this song is a must-listen that never fails to deliver joy.
Video
Lyrics
Return to sender
Return to sender
I gave a letter to the postman
He put it in his sack
Bright early next morning
He brought my letter back
Return to sender, address unknown
No such number, no such zone
We had a quarrel, a lover’s spat
I write I’m sorry, but my letter keeps coming back
So then I dropped it in the mailbox
And sent it special D
Bright and early next morning
It came right back to me
Return to sender, address unknown
No such person, no such zone
This time I’m gonna take it myself and put it right in her hand
And if it comes back the very next day then I’ll understand
Return to sender, address unknown
No such number, no such zone
Return to sender
Return to sender
Return to sender
Return to sender…
