Introduction:
Released in 1958, What’d I Say by the iconic Elvis Presley is not just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. The track, a high-octane blend of rock and roll and rhythm and blues, with a healthy dose of gospel influence, became a surprising phenomenon, breaking down racial barriers and propelling Presley further into superstardom.
What’d I Say wasn’t even intended for release. It emerged from a late-night jam session in July 1957 at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. Sam Phillips, the legendary producer who discovered Presley, captured the electrifying energy of the session, featuring Presley on vocals and guitar, along with his bandmates Scotty Moore (guitar), Bill Black (bass), and D.J. Fontana (drums). The lyrics themselves were improvised by Presley, and some radio stations at the time refused to play the song due to its suggestive nature.
Despite these initial hurdles, What’d I Say became a runaway hit. The song topped the Billboard R&B chart for weeks and reached number one on the pop chart. Presley’s energetic performance, his soulful vocals, and the infectious rhythm section created a sound that resonated with a wide audience. What’d I Say defied categorization, existing at the crossroads of genres and breaking down the racial barriers that had previously separated Black and white music in the United States.
The song’s impact transcended the music charts. What’d I Say became a staple of Presley’s live shows, his energetic performances further amplifying the song’s raw energy. Concert footage from this era shows Presley’s charisma and stage presence captivating audiences, both white and Black. What’d I Say helped to usher in a new era of popular music, paving the way for future generations of artists to blend genres and challenge cultural norms.
What’d I Say remains an important piece of American music history. Its influence can be heard in countless artists that followed Presley, and the song continues to be a popular choice for covers and samples. While the music industry in 1958 may have been hesitant to embrace What’d I Say, the song’s undeniable power and cultural significance continue to resonate today.