Elvis Presley: The Man Behind “Sing You Children”

Introduction

“Sing You Children” is a song written by Ben Weisman and Dolores Fuller, and recorded by Elvis Presley for his 1966 film Easy Come, Easy Go. It was released as a single in the United States in August 1966, and reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song is a gentle ballad with a simple, but effective melody. The lyrics are about the importance of teaching children about the world and helping them to find their way in life. Presley’s vocals are warm and expressive, and he delivers the song with a sense of sincerity and conviction.

“Sing You Children” was not a typical Elvis Presley song. It was a departure from his usual rock and roll sound, and it was more reflective and introspective. This may have been due to the fact that Presley was going through a personal crisis at the time. He was struggling with his career and his personal life, and he was looking for something more meaningful to sing about.

“Sing You Children” was well-received by critics and fans alike. It was praised for its beautiful melody, its thoughtful lyrics, and Presley’s heartfelt performance. The song has since become a classic Elvis Presley ballad, and it is still often performed by Elvis impersonators and tribute bands.

In addition to its commercial success and critical acclaim, “Sing You Children” is also notable for its historical significance. It was one of the first songs that Presley recorded after his return from his military service in Germany. The song marked a new direction for Presley’s music, and it helped to pave the way for his later, more mature work.

“Sing You Children” is a timeless song that speaks to the universal experience of parenthood. It is a reminder of the importance of teaching children about the world and helping them to find their way in life. Presley’s performance is both moving and inspiring, and it makes the song a truly special one.

Here is a more detailed look at the history of the song:

• Songwriting: “Sing You Children” was written by Ben Weisman and Dolores Fuller in 1965. Weisman was a longtime collaborator of Presley’s, and he had written many of his biggest hits, including “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Heartbreak Hotel.” Fuller was a singer-songwriter who had worked with Elvis on several occasions, including on his 1960 album G.I. Blues.
• Recording: Presley recorded “Sing You Children” for his 1966 film Easy Come, Easy Go. The song was recorded at RCA Studios in Hollywood on July 14, 1966. Presley’s vocals were accompanied by a simple arrangement of acoustic guitar and strings.
• Release: “Sing You Children” was released as a single in the United States in August 1966. The single reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 6 on the Cash Box Top 100 chart. It was also a hit in other countries, including Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
• Critical reception: “Sing You Children” was well-received by critics. Billboard magazine called it “a beautiful, moving ballad” and “one of the finest songs of Elvis’ career.” The New York Times praised Presley’s “heartfelt performance” and called the song “a moving tribute to parenthood.”
• Historical significance: “Sing You Children” is notable for its historical significance. It was one of the first songs that Presley recorded after his return from his military service in Germany. The song marked a new direction for Presley’s music, and it helped to pave the way for his later, more mature work.

“Sing You Children” is a timeless song that continues to resonate with listeners today. It is a beautiful and moving ballad about the importance of parenthood. Presley’s heartfelt performance makes the song a truly special one.

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Lyrics

Oh Jonah he was desperate in the belly of the whale
Well Jonah had a plan, he knew he couldn’t failHe raised his head on high
And looking for the sky
And he sang his song so pretty
The whale told him goodbye
You got to sing you children sing
Sing you children sing
I only know one thing, hey! hey! hey!
Sing you children sing, everybody
Sing you children sing
Sing your troubles awayWell Moses said good Lord
Open up these waters for me
So I can get your children
Across the salty sea
Well the Lord parted the waters
And singing hand in hand
Moses and the children
Walked over to the promised land
You got to sing you children sing
Sing you children sing
I only know one thing, hey! hey! hey!
Sing you children sing, everybody
Sing you children sing
Sing your troubles awayOh Joshua had a plan
At the walls of Jericho
He’d march around those walls
And on his horn he’d blow
That horn would play a tune
And sing a happy song
When Joshua got through
Those walls came tumbling down
You got to sing you children sing
Sing you children sing
I only know one thing, hey! hey! hey!
Sing you children sing, everybody
Sing you children sing
Sing your troubles away
You got to sing your troubles away
Sing your troubles away
Sing your troubles away
Sing your troubles away
Sing your troubles away