Stevie Nicks Renders Magical Cover Of Elvis’ “Cotton Candy Land”
via @Stevie Nicks / YouTube
Stevie Nicks, known for her ethereal voice and mystical aura, has unveiled a new rendition of “Cotton Candy Land,” adding her unmistakable touch to the Elvis biopic soundtrack. Her cover appears in the film’s opening scene, setting a surreal tone for the journey into Elvis Presley’s life and legacy. She is joined on the track by Chris Isaak, whose voice complements hers in an unexpectedly haunting way.
The song, originally recorded by Presley in 1962, was part of the 1963 film It Happened at the World’s Fair, where he played a crop-dusting pilot. It’s a whimsical tune, but Nicks’ version reimagines it with a darker, dreamier atmosphere. Her voice, both vulnerable and strong, creates a spellbinding moment that stands out from the rest of the soundtrack.
It’s no surprise that Nicks was chosen to interpret this track. Her long-standing career has always flirted with the fantastical and mysterious, making her a perfect fit for a song with such nostalgic, otherworldly charm. “Cotton Candy Land” in her hands becomes less a lullaby and more a mystical entry into Elvis’ world.
Breathing New Life Into a Forgotten Song
“Cotton Candy Land” was never one of Elvis’ biggest hits, but its inclusion in the new Elvis biopic and its reimagining by Nicks give it renewed visibility. The original, written by Ruth Batchelor and Bob Roberts, had the soft charm of early-’60s storytelling and was buoyed by the harmonies of the Mellomen, a group that frequently backed major stars of the era.
In contrast, Nicks’ version dials up the atmosphere. Where Presley’s rendition felt light and sweet, Nicks and Isaak create something more dreamlike—almost eerie. The subtle instrumentation, layered with her signature vocal style, makes the song feel like a distant memory or a half-remembered dream.
This cover serves as both a tribute and a transformation. Rather than simply replicating the original, Nicks uses it as a canvas, painting with her own colors. It’s a reminder of how classic material can evolve, and how artists like Nicks can bring out new emotions from songs that might otherwise remain frozen in time.
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A Star-Studded Soundtrack for a Modern Biopic
Nicks is just one of several high-profile musicians contributing to the Elvis soundtrack. The lineup includes artists from across the musical spectrum, such as Jack White, Eminem, Kacey Musgraves, and Tame Impala, giving the film a wide sonic appeal. These collaborations highlight the continued influence of Presley’s legacy and his ability to inspire musicians across genres and generations.
The film itself, with Austin Butler portraying the King, is earning critical and commercial praise. Priscilla Presley has even shared her approval, expressing how Butler’s performance has brought new life to Elvis’ image for younger audiences. In this cultural moment, Nicks’ involvement adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to the film’s narrative.
Stevie Nicks’ contribution feels particularly resonant, not just musically but thematically. Her artistic persona has always blended myth, memory, and music—an ideal match for a story about one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most mythologized figures. With “Cotton Candy Land,” she doesn’t just sing a cover—she casts a spell.
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