Elvis Presley – King creole

Introduction:

“King Creole” is a rock and roll song recorded by Elvis Presley for the soundtrack of the 1958 film of the same name. The song served as the title track of the film and showcases Presley’s dynamic vocal delivery and charismatic stage presence. With its catchy melody, driving rhythm, and evocative lyrics, “King Creole” epitomizes the spirit of 1950s rock and roll and remains one of Presley’s most iconic recordings.

Did You Know?

• “King Creole” was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the prolific songwriting duo behind many of Presley’s early hits, including “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock.” The song was specifically tailored to suit the character of Danny Fisher, played by Presley in the film “King Creole.”
• Elvis Presley recorded “King Creole” at RCA Studios in Hollywood, California, on January 15, 1958, as part of the soundtrack sessions for the film. The song features a lively arrangement, with a horn section adding depth and texture to the track.
• “King Creole” was released as a single in 1958 and reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming one of Presley’s biggest hits. The song’s success helped solidify Presley’s status as a leading figure in the world of rock and roll and contributed to the commercial success of the film.
• The lyrics of “King Creole” tell the story of a streetwise young man living in New Orleans who becomes entangled in a life of crime and violence. Presley’s impassioned delivery and emotive phrasing bring the character to life, capturing the turmoil and conflict at the heart of the narrative.
• “King Creole” has since become a staple of Presley’s live performances and is often regarded as one of his signature songs. Its infectious groove and memorable chorus continue to resonate with audiences, cementing its status as a classic rock and roll anthem and a testament to Presley’s enduring legacy as 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)