Introduction:
In 1964, rock and roll found itself woven into the fabric of Hollywood once again with the release of the film Roustabout. Elvis Presley, the undisputed king of rock and roll at the time, took the starring role and delivered the movie’s musical centerpiece: the energetic rockabilly anthem I’m a Roustabout. This 1964 release wasn’t just another soundtrack song; it became a hit in its own right, solidifying Presley’s place as a global musical icon.
I’m a Roustabout wasn’t written by Presley himself, but by the songwriting trio of Bernie Baum, Bill Giant, and Florence Kaye. These three songwriters were well-established in the industry, having written tunes for artists like The Everly Brothers and Ricky Nelson. Their experience shines through in I’m a Roustabout, crafting a song that perfectly captures the rebellious spirit and youthful energy that permeated the film’s carnival setting.
Presley wasn’t the only familiar name behind the music. Colonel Tom Parker, Presley’s longtime manager, served as the film’s producer, ensuring that the musical aspects of the film would complement Presley’s charismatic screen presence.
I’m a Roustabout proved to be a success. The song reached number one on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart, a designation for songs that failed to crack the top 100 but achieved significant sales just below the benchmark. This achievement highlights the song’s popularity at the time, even without reaching the very top of the charts. More importantly, I’m a Roustabout further solidified Presley’s status as a global music icon. By 1964, Presley had already achieved incredible fame, but this song ensured that his energetic and charismatic brand of rock and roll would continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
While I’m a Roustabout may not be one of Presley’s most critically acclaimed songs, it serves as a time capsule of a specific era in both music and cinema. The song’s infectious energy and its link to the film Roustabout offer a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the mid-1960s, showcasing a king at the height of his reign.
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Lyrics:
Build it up, knock it downHold it square, roll it aroundThrow it in the air,Stick it in the groundBut it’s too bad, I can’t get mad‘Cause I’m a roustabout
Tie it loose, make it tightIf it’s wrong, do it rightMakes me kinda feel,Like I wanna fightBut it’s too bad, I can’t get mad‘Cause I’m a roustabout
Orders all day and half the night from the bossThat guy just doesn’t wanna see one minute lost
Stack it up, in the rearBetter still bring it hereWanna take it out, stick it in his earBut it’s too bad, I can’t get mad‘Cause I’m a roustabout
A handyman is all I am around this placeEverytime I turn around, he’s right up in my face
Bring it in, bring it outWhen I’m slow, boy he shoutsGetting awful tired, running in and outBut it’s too bad, I can’t get mad‘Cause I’m a roustabout