Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s “Little Egypt”, a tune that injects a jolt of pure rock and roll energy into the mid-1960s. Released in 1964, this track finds the King in familiar territory, but with a twist. It’s a cover, you see, a reimagining of a 1961 hit by the vocal group The Coasters. But in Presley’s hands, “Little Egypt” transforms, becoming a showcase for his charismatic swagger and undeniable musicality.
Now, some might raise an eyebrow at Elvis tackling a cover at this point in his career. After all, 1964 marked a period where soundtrack work for his increasingly formulaic Hollywood films dominated his output. But “Little Egypt” stands as a reminder that the spark that ignited the rock and roll revolution was still very much alive within him.
The song itself is a delightful slice of rock and roll with a playful, almost campy edge. The songwriting duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the architects behind many of Elvis’ early hits, crafted a song brimming with playful innuendo. The lyrics tell the story of a captivating dancer, a “Little Egypt” who sets hearts ablaze with her exotic moves. It’s a lighthearted theme, perfectly suited for Presley’s playful delivery.
But “Little Egypt” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a testament to Presley’s ability to breathe new life into existing material. The original by The Coasters boasted a smoother, R&B-influenced sound. Elvis, however, injects a dose of pure rock and roll. The tempo is cranked up a notch, the guitars snarl with a bit more bite, and Presley’s vocals, while still smooth, take on a more urgent, almost pleading quality. It’s a performance that crackles with electricity, a reminder that even amidst the more formulaic soundtrack work, the King could still turn up the heat when the right material came along.
There’s no concrete evidence to suggest who produced “Little Egypt” on the soundtrack for the film Roustabout. However, it’s likely that it fell under the purview of either Scotty Moore, Elvis’ longtime guitarist and occasional producer, or Colonel Tom Parker, his enigmatic manager. Regardless of the production credit, the track stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Presley’s rock and roll persona.
“Little Egypt” might not be one of Presley’s biggest hits, but it holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. It’s a reminder of the raw energy and charisma that propelled him to superstardom. It’s a cover song, yes, but in Elvis’ hands, it becomes something entirely new, a testament to his enduring legacy as the King of Rock and Roll.