Introduction:
While not one of his chart-topping hits, Five Sleepy Heads remains a notable entry in the vast catalog of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. Recorded in 1968, the song falls under the umbrella of the rock and roll genre that Elvis helped popularize around the world throughout the 1950s.
Five Sleepy Heads originated during the recording sessions for the film Speedway, released in 1968. Presley starred alongside Nancy Sinatra in the comedic movie, portraying a stock car racer. A number of songs were recorded for the film, but Five Sleepy Heads was ultimately left off the final soundtrack. The reasons for its exclusion are not entirely clear, but it remains a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind a major motion picture.
The producer for the recording sessions, including Five Sleepy Heads, was veteran music industry figure Scotty Moore. Moore played a pivotal role in Elvis Presley’s early career, serving as his guitarist during his rise to fame at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee in the mid-1950s. Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Studio, had produced many of Presley’s early hits, but by 1968, Presley was signed to RCA Records.
Although Five Sleepy Heads was not released at the time, it has endured as a favorite among dedicated Elvis fans. The playful lyrics and energetic performance showcase Presley’s charisma and musicality. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody typify the rock and roll sound that made him a global icon.
Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as Presley’s numerous chart-toppers, Five Sleepy Heads holds a certain mystique for its unreleased status. Its exclusion from the Speedway soundtrack only adds to its intrigue. The song offers a window into the broader scope of Presley’s recording career, showcasing a track that may not have made the final cut but remains a valuable addition to his musical legacy. Since its recording, Five Sleepy Heads has been made available to fans through various channels, including bootleg recordings and official releases by Presley’s estate.