Introduction
“G.I. Blues” is a song first recorded by Elvis Presley as part of the soundtrack for his 1960 motion picture of the same name. It was written by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, who also wrote several other songs for the film, including “Wooden Heart” and “Do the Clam.”
The song was recorded on April 27-28, 1960, at the RCA Studio in Hollywood. Takes 7 and 10 were spliced together to form the vocal master. The song features a simple but catchy melody and a driving beat, with Presley’s vocals soaring over the top.
“G.I. Blues” was released as a single on October 3, 1960, and it quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also topped the charts in Canada and the United Kingdom. The song was also a critical success, with many praising Presley’s vocal performance and the song’s catchy melody.
The song’s success was due in part to its popularity among American troops stationed overseas. The film G.I. Blues was set in Germany, and the song’s lyrics reflected the experiences of many American soldiers stationed abroad. The song also captured the zeitgeist of the early 1960s, with its optimistic and upbeat message.
In addition to its commercial success, “G.I. Blues” is also significant for its cultural impact. The song helped to popularize the “rock and roll” sound in Europe and other parts of the world. It also helped to cement Presley’s status as a global icon.
The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Johnny Cash. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows.
Historical Context
The song “G.I. Blues” was released in 1960, during the Cold War. The United States and the Soviet Union were engaged in a global arms race, and there was a constant threat of nuclear war. However, the song’s lyrics reflect a more optimistic view of the world. Presley sings about the joys of life and the importance of having fun. The song’s message was particularly appealing to young people, who were looking for an escape from the tensions of the Cold War.
The song also reflects the changing social and cultural landscape of the United States. The 1960s was a time of great social and political upheaval, and the song’s upbeat message resonated with young people who were looking for change.
Conclusion
“G.I. Blues” is a classic Elvis Presley song that has stood the test of time. It is a song that is both catchy and meaningful, and it continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages. The song is also a significant cultural artifact, as it reflects the zeitgeist of the early 1960s.
Watch video
Lyrics
They give us a room
with a view of the beautiful Rhine
They give us a room
with a view of the beautiful Rhine
Gimme a muddy old creek
in Texas any old timeI’ve got those hup, two, three, four
occupation G.I. Blues
From my G.I. hair to the heels of my G.I. shoes
And if I don’t go stateside soon
I’m gonna blow my fuseWe get hasenpfeffer
and black pumpernickel for chow
We get hasenpfeffer
and black pumpernickel for chow
I’d blow my next month’s pay
for a slice of Texas cowWe’d like to be heroes,
but all we do here is march
We’d like to be heroes,
but all we do here is march
And they don’t give the Purple Heart
for a fallen archI’ve got those hup, two, three, four
occupation G.I. Blues
From my G.I. hair to the heels of my G.I. shoes
And if I don’t go stateside soon
I’m gonna blow my fuseThe frauleins are pretty as flowers
But we can’t make a pass
The frauleins are pretty as flowers
But we can’t make a pass
Cause they’re all wearin’ signs saying:
“Keepen sie off the grass”I’ve got those hup, two, three, four
occupation G.I. Blues
From my G.I. hair to the heels of my G.I. shoes
And if I don’t go stateside soon
I’m gonna blow my fuse