Elvis Presley – King Creole

Introduction:

While Elvis Presley is often synonymous with electrifying rock ‘n’ roll anthems and energetic stage performances, a hidden gem within his repertoire delves deeper, showcasing a multifaceted artist. Released in 1958, “King Creole” isn’t just a song; it’s a full-fledged musical drama film that launched Elvis as a serious actor and unveiled a vulnerability often overshadowed by his larger-than-life persona.

Composed by the songwriting duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, “King Creole” was initially conceived as a stand-alone song. However, its captivating melody and Presley’s charismatic vocals caught the attention of Hollywood producers. The song became the cornerstone for a film of the same name, transforming it from a catchy tune into a narrative cornerstone. Produced by Hal B. Wallis, a Hollywood heavyweight known for his work with Humphrey Bogart and Cary Grant, “King Creole” marked a turning point in Presley’s career.

The film follows the story of Danny Fisher, a disillusioned teenager caught between a life of pursuing his musical dreams and the allure of a local gangster’s world. Elvis sheds his usual rock ‘n’ roll persona and embodies the conflicted Danny with surprising depth. The on-screen chemistry between Presley and his co-stars, including Carolyn Jones and Dolores Hart, adds to the film’s appeal.

“King Creole” the film reached number two at the box office upon its release, solidifying Elvis’s status as a bankable movie star. The soundtrack album, featuring the title track alongside other powerful ballads and up-tempo numbers, climbed to number two on the Billboard 200 chart. This success demonstrated Elvis’s ability to connect with audiences beyond his rock ‘n’ roll roots, proving his acting chops and musical versatility.

“King Creole” holds a significant place in Elvis Presley’s legacy. It marked his transition from a musical phenomenon to a serious actor, paving the way for future films like “Jailhouse Rock” and “GI Blues.” More importantly, the song itself showcased a previously unseen emotional vulnerability in his delivery. “King Creole” is a reminder that Elvis Presley wasn’t just a rock ‘n’ roll icon; he was an artist capable of captivating audiences through both music and film.

“King Creole” isn’t just a song or a film; it’s an invitation to explore the complexities of Elvis Presley, the artist. As you delve into the film or listen to the music, remember, beneath the charismatic swagger and electrifying performances resided an artist yearning for deeper expression. Let “King Creole” be a gateway to appreciating the multifaceted talent of the King of Rock and Roll.

Video:

Lyrics:

There’s a man in New Orleans who plays rock and roll
He’s a guitar man with a great big soul
He lays down a beat like a ton of coal
He goes by the name of King Creole

You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Jumping like a catfish on a pole, yeah
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, King Creole)

When the king starts to do it, it’s as good as done
He holds his guitar like a tommy gun
He starts to growl from way down in his throat
He bends a string and that’s all she wrote

You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Jumping like a catfish on a pole, yeah
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, King Creole)

Well, he sings a song about a crawdad hole
He sings a song about a jelly roll
He sings a song about a-pork and greens
He sings some blues about New Orleans

You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Jumping like a catfish on a pole yeah
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, go)

He plays something evil, then he plays something sweet
No matter how he plays, you gotta get up on your feet
When he gets a rocking fever, baby, heaven sakes
He don’t stop playing ’til his guitar breaks

You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Jumping like a catfish on a pole, yeah
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (King Creole)

You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (Creole, Creole, Creole, Creole)