Introduction
“Frankie and Johnny” is a traditional American murder ballad that has been around for centuries. The earliest known version of the song dates back to the 18th century, and it has been recorded by countless artists over the years, including Elvis Presley.
The song tells the story of a woman named Frankie who finds her man, Johnny, cheating on her with another woman. In a fit of rage, Frankie shoots Johnny dead. The song’s lyrics are stark and unflinching, and they paint a vivid picture of the violence and heartbreak that can be unleashed by jealousy and betrayal.
Elvis Presley’s version of “Frankie and Johnny” was released in 1966 as part of the soundtrack to his film of the same name. Presley’s performance is raw and passionate, and he brings a new level of intensity to the song. His vocals are backed by a driving rhythm and blues arrangement, and the result is a powerful and unforgettable rendition of this classic ballad.
“Frankie and Johnny” has been interpreted in many different ways over the years. Some see it as a cautionary tale about the dangers of infidelity, while others view it as a feminist anthem about female empowerment. The song’s enduring appeal is likely due to its universal themes of love, loss, and revenge.
Here is a more detailed look at the history of the song and its significance:
- The earliest known version of “Frankie and Johnny” dates back to the 18th century. It was a broadside ballad, which means that it was printed on a single sheet of paper and sold on the streets. Broadside ballads were often about sensational news stories or popular folktales, and “Frankie and Johnny” was one of the most popular ballads of its time.
- The song’s lyrics have changed over the years. The earliest versions of the song are more explicit about the violence of the crime, but later versions have softened the lyrics to make them more palatable to a wider audience.
- “Frankie and Johnny” has been recorded by countless artists over the years. Some of the most notable recordings include versions by Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley.
- The song has been interpreted in many different ways. Some see it as a cautionary tale about the dangers of infidelity, while others view it as a feminist anthem about female empowerment.
- “Frankie and Johnny” continues to be popular today. It is a song that has stood the test of time, and it continues to resonate with listeners for its timeless themes of love, loss, and revenge.
Elvis Presley’s version of “Frankie and Johnny” is a classic example of how a traditional folk song can be reinterpreted and revitalized for a new generation. Presley’s performance is passionate and powerful, and it brings a new level of intensity to the song. His version of “Frankie and Johnny” is a must-listen for any fan of Elvis Presley or American folk music.
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Lyrics
Frankie and me we were lovers
Oh lordy how we could love
Swore we’d be true to each other
Just as true as stars above
I was her man, she caught me doing her wrongMy luck in poker was fading
When a new gal caught my eye
I gambled, I tried to change my luck
With a chick named Nellie Bly
I was Frankie’s man but I was doing her wrongYeah! Frankie came looking to find me
Yes, she wasn’t looking for fun
For in her sweet loving hand
She was totin’ a 44 gun
To shoot her man if he was doin’ her wrongWell Frankie walked into the bar room
And right there in front of her eyes
There was her loving Johnny
Making love to that Nellie Bly
I was her man, she caught me doing her wrongFrankie, I beg, please don’t shoot me
Well they’ll put you away in a cell
You know they’ll put you where the cold wind blows
From the hottest corner in hell
I’m your man, I know I done you wrongEasy on the roll, real easy
Easy on the roll, real slow
Roll me over real gently
‘Cause my wound hurts me so
Well I was her man
Well I done her wrongWell Frankie told Johnny
Well this is the end of my song
I was her man, well I done her wrong
Well , hey, hey, hey, hey, hey
Done her wrong