Introduction:
Rock-A-Hula Baby, a song synonymous with sunshine, swaying hips, and infectious rhythms, emerged in the year 1961. The king of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, lent his charismatic voice to this energetic tune, solidifying its place as a pop culture staple. The song was specifically composed for the film Blue Hawaii, a romantic comedy featuring Presley himself. Though not credited as a producer on the film, Joseph Lilley oversaw the soundtrack’s production, including Rock-A-Hula Baby.
While not Presley’s most critically acclaimed work, Rock-A-Hula Baby was a commercial success. The song became a hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This achievement marked Presley’s continued reign over the music scene and solidified the film’s connection to popular culture.
Rock-A-Hula Baby embodies the essence of tropical rock, a subgenre that blends rock and roll with Polynesian influences. The song features a bright tempo, accented by rhythmic handclaps and prominent ukulele strums. Presley’s signature vocals, a blend of soulful swagger and playful charm, perfectly complement the song’s carefree mood. The lyrics themselves are simple and lighthearted, revolving around an infatuation with a captivating hula dancer.
Rock-A-Hula Baby’s cultural impact extends beyond its chart performance. The song remains a popular choice for artists covering Presley’s extensive repertoire. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a world of carefree summer vibes and infectious island rhythms. Rock-A-Hula Baby serves as a reminder of Presley’s lasting influence and his ability to deliver a captivating song, even within the context of a Hollywood film.
Video:
https://youtu.be/irgAlU-7em8?si=TL6KPbt2mRERxOFM
Lyrics:
Rock-a-hula, rock-rock-a-hulaRock-a-hula, rock-rock-a-hulaRock-a-hula, rock-rock-a-hulaRock-a-hula, rock-rock-a-hulaRock-a-hula, rock-rock-a-hulaRock-a-hula, rock
Rock-a-hula, rockA-hula, rockA-hula, rock, a-hula, rock
The way she moves her hips to her fingertipsI feel I’m heaven boundAnd when she starts to sway, I’ve gotta sayShe really move the grass around
Rock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyGot a hula lulu from HonoluluThat rock-a-hula baby of mine
Rock-a-hula, rock-rock-a-hulaRock-a-hula, rock
Although I love to kiss my little hula missI never get the chanceI want to hold her tight all through the nightBut all she wants to do is dance
Rock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyGot a hula lulu from HonoluluThat rock-a-hula baby of mine
Rock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyRock, rock, rock, rock
Rock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyRock, rock, rock, rock
Rock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyGot a hula lulu from HonoluluThat rock-a-hula baby of mine
Oh well, that rock-a-hula baby of mine