About the song
“Return to Sender” is a notable song recorded by the legendary Elvis Presley, featured in his 1962 film *Girls! Girls! Girls!*. This rock and roll classic was written by the talented duo Winfield Scott and Otis Blackwell, who crafted the song to match Presley’s vibrant musical style. The lyrics tell the story of a man lamenting a troubled relationship with a spiteful partner, capturing both the emotional depth and the catchy charm that made Presley’s music so beloved.
Released on October 2, 1962, “Return to Sender” quickly became a commercial success. It reached number one on the UK Singles Chart and earned the title of the UK Christmas number one in 1962. Notably, it was also the first song to top the Irish Singles Chart during the Christmas season. In the United States, the track climbed to number two on the Billboard singles chart, narrowly missing the top spot due to competition from The Four Seasons’ “Big Girls Don’t Cry.” Nevertheless, it achieved the number one position on both the Cash Box and Music Vendor charts and reached number five on the R&B charts. The single was so successful that it was certified platinum by the RIAA, recognizing over one million units sold in the US.
The songwriters, Otis Blackwell and Winfield Scott, were already known for their impressive work with Presley, having written hits like “Don’t Be Cruel” and “All Shook Up.” For the film *Girls! Girls! Girls!*, they were tasked with creating a fitting soundtrack. Initially, they struggled with other song ideas, but inspiration struck when they received a piece of mail stamped with “Return to Sender! No such person! No such zone!” This gave them the creative spark needed to craft the song’s memorable lyrics about a failed romance.
During the recording session on March 27, 1962, Presley, despite his initial lack of enthusiasm for the soundtrack, found new energy in “Return to Sender.” He recorded the song in just two takes, delivering a performance that revitalized the joy and excitement of his earlier rock and roll hits. The track features a lively, upbeat tempo with a prominent saxophone part, chosen by Presley to add a fresh touch to the song.
Overall, “Return to Sender” stands out as a quintessential example of Presley’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with infectious melodies, creating a timeless hit that continues to be celebrated decades after its release.
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…