Introduction
In the realm of Elvis Presley’s musical repertoire, “Carny Town” stands as a spirited ode to the thrill and mystique of the traveling carnival. Released in 1964 as part of the soundtrack for his film “Roustabout,” the song captures the essence of this quintessential American institution, immersing listeners in a world of dazzling lights, boisterous laughter, and the promise of escape.
The song’s origin can be traced back to the mid-1960s, when Elvis was seeking to revitalize his career following a string of commercially unsuccessful films and albums. The idea for “Roustabout” was born, envisioning a story about a young man who joins a traveling carnival as a roustabout. With this concept in mind, songwriters Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman embarked on writing songs that would resonate with the film’s themes and setting.
“Carny Town” emerged as one of the most captivating tracks from the soundtrack, showcasing Elvis’s dynamic vocal delivery and the infectious energy of the carnival atmosphere. The song opens with a rousing trumpet fanfare that sets the tone for the lively melody, while Elvis’s voice croons with youthful exuberance, portraying the thrill of the carnival experience.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the carnival’s allure, with lines like “The painted wagons rolling down the dusty road” and “The crowd’s a-cheerin’, the music’s playin’, the lights are a-flashin’ bright.” The song evokes a sense of freedom and escapism, capturing the essence of the carnival’s ability to transport its visitors to a world of enchantment and excitement.
“Carny Town” has rightfully earned its place among Elvis’s most beloved songs, not only for its infectious energy and catchy melody but also for its ability to transport listeners to another world, a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and the carnival’s magic captivates all who enter.
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Lyrics
Aha-ha hurry, hurry step this way
Aha-ha hurry, hurry step this way
Now the show you’re going to see is strictly high class
There’ll be ten hoola dancers shaking their grass
So step right up and put your money down
This way to Carny TownWe got a man so skinny you can see his bones
We play on his ribs like a xylophone
With a pair of spoons we get a rockin’ song
You’ll hear it all, in Carny TownHurry, hurry, hurry, the house is almost full
We got a two headed cow and that’s no bull
There’s a man who swallows swords and he never gets hurt
He eats razor blades for dessert
He’s just about the sharpest guy around
You’ll see him here, in Carny TownAha-ha hurry, hurry step this way
Aha-ha hurry, hurry step this way
Aha-ha hurry, hurry step this way
Aha-ha hurry, hurry step this way
Aha-ha I say we’re gonna win
I said hurry upÂ