About The Song
“Rock-A-Hula Baby,” the infectious island tune that rocked its way into hearts and onto the dance floor in 1961! This isn’t just a simple Elvis bop; it’s a vibrant snapshot of Hawaii’s cultural influence on the King and a window into his early film career. So, let’s grab our leis and hipsters, and dive into the history of this hula-infused rock ‘n’ roll gem.
“Rock-A-Hula Baby” was written by Don Robertson, specifically for Elvis’s film “Blue Hawaii.” The director, Norman Taurog, wanted a song that captured the vibrant spirit of island culture and blended seamlessly with Elvis’s on-screen persona. Robertson delivered, crafting lyrics that combined traditional Hawaiian words (“hula lulu”) with playful rock ‘n’ roll slang (“twist,” “rock, rock, rock”).
The song wasn’t just featured in the film; it became its heartbeat. Elvis’s energetic performance in the iconic beach scene, surrounded by swaying palm trees and hula dancers, cemented “Rock-A-Hula Baby” as a hit. The catchy melody, fueled by handclaps and ukuleles, spread like wildfire, topping airplay charts and becoming a staple of Elvis’s live shows.
While the song exudes beachside fun, it also subtly reflects the cultural blending that occurred in Hawaii. Elvis, deeply inspired by the local music and dance, infused “Rock-A-Hula Baby” with a respect for island tradition. The use of Hawaiian words and references to the “hula lulu” (an energetic hula style) showcase an appreciation for the culture beyond simply appropriating it for entertainment.
“Rock-A-Hula Baby” remains a timeless symbol of Elvis’s early film era and his love for Hawaii. It’s a reminder that cultural exchange can create vibrant art, blending traditions into something new and exciting. The song continues to bring a smile to faces and get feet moving, proving that a little bit of rock ‘n’ roll and a sprinkle of hula magic can turn into a musical paradise.
So, crank up the volume, put on your grass skirt (optional!), and let Elvis Presley’s “Rock-A-Hula Baby” transport you to a sun-drenched island paradise. This isn’t just a song; it’s an invitation to dance, celebrate cultural exchange, and enjoy the infectious spirit of Hawaii through the King’s rock ‘n’ roll lens. Aloha!
Video
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, rockRock-a-hula, rockA-hula, rockA-hula, rock, a-hula, rockThe 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 aroundRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyGot a hula lulu from HonoluluThat rock-a-hula baby of mineRock-a-hula, rock-rock-a-hulaRock-a-hula, rockAlthough 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 danceRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyGot a hula lulu from HonoluluThat rock-a-hula baby of mineRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyRock, rock, rock, rockRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyRock, rock, rock, rockRock-a-hula babyRock-a-hula babyGot a hula lulu from HonoluluThat rock-a-hula baby of mineOh well, that rock-a-hula baby of mine