Introduction:
While Elvis Presley is often synonymous with electrifying rock ‘n’ roll anthems and energetic stage performances, a hidden gem within his repertoire delves deeper, showcasing a multifaceted artist. Released in 1958, “King Creole” isn’t just a song; it’s a full-fledged musical drama film that launched Elvis as a serious actor and unveiled a vulnerability often overshadowed by his larger-than-life persona.
Composed by the songwriting duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, “King Creole” was initially conceived as a stand-alone song. However, its captivating melody and Presley’s charismatic vocals caught the attention of Hollywood producers. The song became the cornerstone for a film of the same name, transforming it from a catchy tune into a narrative cornerstone. Produced by Hal B. Wallis, a Hollywood heavyweight known for his work with Humphrey Bogart and Cary Grant, “King Creole” marked a turning point in Presley’s career.
The film follows the story of Danny Fisher, a disillusioned teenager caught between a life of pursuing his musical dreams and the allure of a local gangster’s world. Elvis sheds his usual rock ‘n’ roll persona and embodies the conflicted Danny with surprising depth. The on-screen chemistry between Presley and his co-stars, including Carolyn Jones and Dolores Hart, adds to the film’s appeal.
“King Creole” the film reached number two at the box office upon its release, solidifying Elvis’s status as a bankable movie star. The soundtrack album, featuring the title track alongside other powerful ballads and up-tempo numbers, climbed to number two on the Billboard 200 chart. This success demonstrated Elvis’s ability to connect with audiences beyond his rock ‘n’ roll roots, proving his acting chops and musical versatility.
“King Creole” holds a significant place in Elvis Presley’s legacy. It marked his transition from a musical phenomenon to a serious actor, paving the way for future films like “Jailhouse Rock” and “GI Blues.” More importantly, the song itself showcased a previously unseen emotional vulnerability in his delivery. “King Creole” is a reminder that Elvis Presley wasn’t just a rock ‘n’ roll icon; he was an artist capable of captivating audiences through both music and film.
“King Creole” isn’t just a song or a film; it’s an invitation to explore the complexities of Elvis Presley, the artist. As you delve into the film or listen to the music, remember, beneath the charismatic swagger and electrifying performances resided an artist yearning for deeper expression. Let “King Creole” be a gateway to appreciating the multifaceted talent of the King of Rock and Roll.
Video:
https://youtu.be/rvj6pbGOVyQ?si=TeTqLo8hXYifoBdw
Lyrics:
There’s a man in New Orleans who plays rock and rollHe’s a guitar man with a great big soulHe lays down a beat like a ton of coalHe goes by the name of King Creole
You know he’s gone, gone, goneJumping like a catfish on a pole, yeahYou know he’s gone, gone, goneHip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, King Creole)
When the king starts to do it, it’s as good as doneHe holds his guitar like a tommy gunHe starts to growl from way down in his throatHe bends a string and that’s all she wrote
You know he’s gone, gone, goneJumping like a catfish on a pole, yeahYou know he’s gone, gone, goneHip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, King Creole)
Well, he sings a song about a crawdad holeHe sings a song about a jelly rollHe sings a song about a-pork and greensHe sings some blues about New Orleans
You know he’s gone, gone, goneJumping like a catfish on a pole yeahYou know he’s gone, gone, goneHip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, go)
He plays something evil, then he plays something sweetNo matter how he plays, you gotta get up on your feetWhen he gets a rocking fever, baby, heaven sakesHe don’t stop playing ’til his guitar breaks
You know he’s gone, gone, goneJumping like a catfish on a pole, yeahYou know he’s gone, gone, goneHip-shaking King Creole (King Creole)
You know he’s gone, gone, goneHip-shaking King Creole (Creole, Creole, Creole, Creole)