About The Song
“Song of the Shrimp” by Elvis Presley! Now, this isn’t a typical Elvis ballad or rock ‘n’ roll anthem. It’s a lighthearted, tongue-in-cheek tune from the 1962 film “Girls! Girls! Girls!” that surprisingly has a bit of history behind it. So, let’s dive into the ocean of crustaceans and uncover the secrets of this fishy song.
The song wasn’t originally intended for Elvis. It was written by Roy C. Bennett and Sid Tepper, who penned many of Elvis’s film songs. When director Norman Taurog heard it, he envisioned it as a fun, comedic element for Elvis’s character in the film. And sure enough, “Song of the Shrimp” landed in the script as a playful performance at a seaside barbecue.
The song’s lyrics are full of quirky rhymes and lighthearted metaphors, comparing shrimp to everything from dancers to sailors. But beneath the humor, there’s a subtle nod to the harsh realities of the fishing industry. Elvis sings about the dangers of the sea, the long hours on deck, and the struggle to make a living. This bittersweet undercurrent adds a layer of depth to the song, reminding us that even in the midst of merriment, life isn’t always smooth sailing.
Of course, the true magic of “Song of the Shrimp” lies in Elvis’s delivery. He imbues the lyrics with a playful charm, his voice lilting and swinging to the rhythm. His energetic performance and infectious smile turn the song into a showstopper, even if the lyrics themselves are a bit silly.
While not one of Elvis’s biggest hits, “Song of the Shrimp” has gained a cult following among fans who appreciate its quirky humor and Elvis’s charismatic performance. It’s a fun reminder that the King wasn’t afraid to experiment and have a little fun with his music.
So, grab your cocktail shrimp and put on your dancing shoes, because it’s time to join Elvis for a “Song of the Shrimp.” Don’t take it too seriously, just enjoy the silly rhymes, the catchy tune, and the King’s undeniable charisma. It’s a lighthearted escape into the world of sunshine, seashells, and the occasional crustacean metaphor.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I saw three shrimp in the water, two were old and grayI swam a little bit closer and .. I heard the third one sayGoodbye mama shrimp, papa shake my handHere come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’He showed his mama and papa, the shrimp newspaper he readAn invitation to all the shrimp and this is what it saidFree ride, New Orleans, stay in grand hotelBig Creole gal who help you come out of your shellBig Creole gal who help you come out of your shellIf I should live to be ninety, I will never forgetThe little shrimp and the song he sang as he jumped into the netGoodbye mama shrimp, papa shake my handHere come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’