Do You Know?
“Got a Lot o’ Livin’ to Do!” is a song written by Ben Weisman and first recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957 for the soundtrack of his film Loving You. The song was released as a single in September 1957 and reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It is one of Presley’s most iconic and enduring songs, and its message of youthful exuberance and optimism has resonated with generations of listeners.
The song’s lyrics are simple but effective. They celebrate the joys of youth and the excitement of new experiences. The singer declares that he has “a lot o’ livin’ to do” and that he is “gonna dance and sing and shout it loud.” He is not afraid to take risks or to live life to the fullest.
Presley’s performance of the song is electrifying. He delivers the lyrics with energy and passion, and his voice soars over the catchy melody. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it impossible to sit still.
“Got a Lot o’ Livin’ to Do!” was a perfect fit for Presley’s image as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. It was a song that captured the youthful energy and rebellious spirit of the era. The song was also a commercial success, becoming one of Presley’s biggest hits.
In addition to its commercial success, “Got a Lot o’ Livin’ to Do!” has also been praised by critics for its catchy melody, energetic performance, and positive message. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and Bruce Springsteen. It remains a popular and beloved song today.
The song’s message of youthful exuberance and optimism is particularly relevant in today’s world. In a time of uncertainty and division, “Got a Lot o’ Livin’ to Do!” reminds us to embrace life and to live it to the fullest. It is a song that encourages us to take risks, to follow our dreams, and to make the most of every moment.
Here are some specific examples of how Presley’s performance of the song conveys its message of youthful exuberance and optimism:
- His energetic vocals and expressive facial expressions convey the singer’s excitement and joy.
- His playful guitar playing and enthusiastic dancing add to the song’s sense of fun and carefree abandon.
- The song’s overall upbeat tempo and infectious energy create a feeling of excitement and possibility.
In short, Presley’s performance of “Got a Lot o’ Livin’ to Do!” is a masterclass in how to convey a song’s message through performance. It is a performance that is both entertaining and inspiring, and it is one that continues to resonate with listeners today.
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Lyrics
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
Come on baby, to make it fun it takes two
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
And there’s no one who I’d rather do it with-a than youThere’s a moon that’s big and bright in the milky way tonight
But the way you act you never would know it’s there
So baby, time’s a wasting
A lot of kisses I ain’t been tasting
I don’t know about you but I’m gonna get my shareOh got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
Come on baby, to make it fun it takes two
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
And there’s no one who I’d rather do it with-a than youThere’s a balmy little breeze
That’s whistling through the trees
And it’s telling you to pitch a little woo with me
Why don’t you take a listen
You’ll never know what you’ve been missing
Cuddle up a little closer and be my little honey beeOh got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
Come on baby, to make it fun it takes two
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
And there’s no one who I’d rather do it with-a than youYou’re the prettiest thing I’ve seen
But you treat me so doggone mean
Ain’t you got no heart, I’m dying to hold you near
Why do you keep me waiting
Why don’t you start co-operating
And the things I say are things you want to hearOh got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
Come on baby, to make it fun it takes two
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
And there’s no one who I’d rather do it with-a than you