1972 & 1974

[EP6873]

Why did Elvis record so few new songs in 1972 and 1974, compared to other years in the 70s?

[Larry Dickman]

A think maybe it was a combination of circumstances, ie. busy tour schedule and lack of motivation.

[Joe Car]

I know if I played 150 concerts a year, the last thing I would want to do is studio work, I'd want to a break each chance I could get. I also think that in 72, his pending divorce most likely took away from recording time.

[Larry Dickman]

I also think that in 72, his pending divorce most likely took away from recording time.

Another good point, Joe.

[EP75]

He was on the road the most in 1972 and 1974 which cut back studio time for EP. I believe that 1974 was his biggest year ever for performing live.

[Raised on Rock]

Non stop touring was an issue, his divorce, personal and health problems taking most of his free time where another, but there was also the fact of a total lack of vision and direction from RCA staff about releasing Elvis material which leaded to low charting single records and albums plus he wasnt getting enough good material to do, just lots of mediocre song that he ratter avoided and thats why he did so many cover songs in those days, so all of that must have leaded to a very bad lack of motivation to go into a studio and cut some records. Memphis, December 1973 was a big excepetion, the closest thing to Nashville 1970 I guess.

[Unchained Melody]

I know if I played 150 concerts a year, the last thing I would want to do is studio work, I'd want to a break each chance I could get. I also think that in 72, his pending divorce most likely took away from recording time.

I agree Joe. Over the years though i don't think Elvis really wanted to go to the studio, this is obvious with the canceled Nashville Sessions in January '77...especially in the later years. But he was in the studio and recorded new material in 1975 and '76.

[RS277]

I think the mere fact of lack of material was probably the most non motivating factor.