About the song
Elvis Presley’s discography is a treasure trove of iconic hits, from heart-pounding rock and roll anthems to soulful ballads. But nestled among these chart-toppers is a quirky little number that offers a glimpse into a simpler time: “Polk Salad Annie.” Released in 1970, this song is a delightful blend of country, rock, and blues, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
At first listen, “Polk Salad Annie” might seem like an odd choice for the King of Rock and Roll. It’s a tale of rural Southern life, complete with references to alligators, chain gangs, and, of course, the eponymous Polk salad. But Elvis’s charismatic delivery and the song’s infectious energy make it a truly unforgettable listening experience.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of life in the Deep South. The protagonist, Polk Salad Annie, is a resourceful young woman who gathers wild greens to feed her family. Despite the hardships she faces, she remains resilient and full of spirit. The song’s playful tone and humorous lyrics offer a nostalgic look at a bygone era.
Musically, “Polk Salad Annie” is a showcase of Elvis’s versatility as a performer. The song features a driving rhythm and a catchy melody, with Elvis’s vocals soaring over the arrangement. The backing band delivers a tight and energetic performance, adding to the song’s overall appeal.
“Polk Salad Annie” is more than just a fun and catchy song. It’s a testament to Elvis Presley’s ability to connect with audiences on a deep level. The song’s themes of resilience, community, and the simple pleasures of life resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you’re a lifelong Elvis fan or simply looking for a great song to add to your playlist, “Polk Salad Annie” is sure to please.
Video
Lyrics
If some of ya’ll never been down south too much
Some y’all never been down s-
I’m gonna tell you a little story so’s you’ll understand what I’m talkin’ about
Down there we have a plant that grows out in the woods, and the fields
And it looks somethin’ like a turnip green
Everybody calls it polk salad
Now that’s polk salad
Used to know a girl lived down there and she’d go out in the evenings and
Pick her a mess of it
Carry it home and cook it for supper
Because that’s about all they had to eat
But they did all right
Down in Louisiana, where the alligators grow so mean
Lived a girl, that I swear to the world
Made the alligators look tame
Polk salad Annie, gators got your granny
Everybody said it was a shame
Because her momma was a workin’ on the chain gang
A mean vicious woman
Everyday before supper time, she’d go down by the truck patch
And pick her a mess of polk salad, and carry it home in a tow sack
Polk salad Annie, the gators got your granny
Everybody says it was a shame
Because her momma was a workin’ on the chain gang
A wretched, spiteful, straight-razor totin’ woman
Lord have Mercy, pick a mess of it
Sock a little polk salad to me
Her daddy was lazy and no-count, claimed he had a bad back
All her brothers were fit for
Was stealin’ watermelons out of my truck patch
Polk salad Annie, the gators got your granny
Everybody said it was a shame
Because her momma was a workin’ on the chain gang
Yeah, sock a little polk salad to me, you know I need me a mess of it
Sock a little
Sock a little polk salad to me, you know I need a real mess of it (chick-a-boom)
Sock a little polk salad, you know I need a real (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
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