A lot of covers of “Heartbreak Hotel” really lean into the blues side of the song. So many versions copy the famous breaks in the original. And plenty of those who sing it try, at least a little bit, to imitate Elvis’ delivery.

So it’s at least a little curious that singer Brian Fate’s new cover does not fall into the “Heartbreak Hotel” cover cliche mold. In part because some publications describe Fate as a “blues singer.” But, rest assured, this is not a typical “Heartbreak Hotel” cover and it leans heavily away from the blues, Elvis’ delivery, and the famous breaks in the song. None of those are present. Continue reading »