“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Elvis Presley’s “King Creole” transports listeners back to a time when rock ‘n’ roll ruled the airwaves, capturing the essence of youthful rebellion and passion. For those who grew up with the sounds of the 1950s, the song is more than just a track—it’s a vivid memory of carefree summer nights, jukebox melodies, and the electric atmosphere of dance halls. Even for later generations, “King Creole” remains a testament to Elvis’s undeniable charm and the powerful cultural shift he led.
About The Composition
- Title: King Creole
- Composer: Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller
- Premiere Date: 1958
- Album/Opus/Collection: King Creole (Soundtrack)
- Genre: Rock and Roll, Rhythm and Blues
Background
The song “King Creole” was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller specifically for the 1958 film of the same name, starring Elvis Presley. At this time, Presley was already a major star, and the movie was intended to capitalize on his immense popularity. Set in New Orleans, King Creole follows a troubled young man who uses his singing talent to navigate life’s challenges. This setting provided a perfect backdrop for the song’s rhythm and blues influences, capturing the vibrant, gritty energy of the city’s music scene.
Elvis’s performance in the film was widely regarded as one of his best, showcasing his abilities not only as a singer but as an actor. The soundtrack, with “King Creole” as its title track, was equally well-received, climbing up the charts and solidifying Elvis’s status as a rock ‘n’ roll icon. The song itself became a staple in his repertoire, symbolizing the fusion of rock and rhythm and blues that characterized his early sound.
Musical Style
“King Creole” features a driving rhythm and blues foundation, combined with the raw, soulful energy that defined much of Elvis’s early work. The instrumentation, including brass sections and bluesy guitar riffs, reflects the influence of New Orleans jazz and R&B, adding depth to the rock ‘n’ roll structure. Elvis’s vocal delivery is dynamic, shifting from smooth crooning to powerful belts, embodying the struggles and triumphs of his character in the film. This combination of rhythmic complexity, soulful instrumentation, and charismatic vocal style makes “King Creole” an enduring classic.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “King Creole” tell the story of a young man’s rise from a humble background to become a celebrated performer, a narrative that closely mirrors Elvis’s own life. With lines like “He holds his guitar like a Tommy gun,” the song conveys a sense of defiance and resilience. The protagonist’s journey to success serves as a metaphor for overcoming adversity, resonating with the spirit of rebellion and individualism that marked much of 1950s youth culture. The upbeat, yet gritty, nature of the lyrics is well-matched by the energetic musical arrangement, creating a cohesive and compelling storytelling experience.
Performance History
Elvis Presley performed “King Creole” during the promotional tour for the film, and it quickly became one of the standout tracks from his live performances during this period. Notably, it was included in the setlist of his 1968 “Comeback Special,” where he reconnected with fans after a period away from live music. Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, each bringing their own spin to the classic tune, though none could quite capture the original’s raw energy. Its live renditions often showcase the powerful brass arrangements and highlight Elvis’s dynamic stage presence, making it a favorite among fans.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its role as a key part of the King Creole soundtrack, the song has had a lasting impact on popular music and culture. It represents the merging of rock ‘n’ roll with deeper, blues-rooted musical traditions, a fusion that Elvis helped to popularize. The film and its soundtrack played a significant part in shaping the image of the rebellious, charismatic young man that Elvis would become known for throughout his career. The song has been used in various media over the years, including in television programs and as a nostalgic reference in movies about the 1950s and 60s, further embedding it in popular culture.
Legacy
“King Creole” remains a defining track in Elvis Presley’s career, illustrating the blend of styles that made him a pioneering figure in rock ‘n’ roll. Today, it continues to resonate with audiences for its raw energy and the timeless charisma of its performance. The song’s legacy endures not only in its place within the classic rock canon but also in its influence on countless artists who followed, blending rhythm and blues with rock elements. Its relevance persists in the ongoing appreciation for Elvis’s contributions to music and his role in bridging cultural and musical divides during a transformative era in American history.
Conclusion
Listening to “King Creole” is like stepping into a time machine, feeling the pulse of a period when rock ‘n’ roll was more than music—it was a movement. Its infectious energy, heartfelt lyrics, and vibrant instrumentation make it a must-listen for fans of Elvis and classic rock alike. For those new to the song, I recommend listening to the original soundtrack version or watching his performance in the King Creole film to experience the full impact of this timeless piece. It’s a reminder of why Elvis Presley remains the “King” of rock ‘n’ roll.
Video
Lyrics
King Creole, go
There’s a man in New Orleans who plays rock and roll
He’s a guitar man with a great big soul
He lays down a beat like a ton of coal
He goes by the name of King Creole
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Jumping like a catfish on a pole, yeah
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, King Creole)
When the king starts to do it, it’s as good as done
He holds his guitar like a tommy gun
He starts to growl from way down in his throat
He bends a string and that’s all she wrote
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Jumping like a catfish on a pole, yeah
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, King Creole)
Well, he sings a song about a crawdad hole
He sings a song about a jelly roll
He sings a song about a-pork and greens
He sings some blues about New Orleans
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Jumping like a catfish on a pole yeah
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (King Creole, go)
He plays something evil, then he plays something sweet
No matter how he plays, you gotta get up on your feet
When he gets a rocking fever, baby, heaven sakes
He don’t stop playing ’til his guitar breaks
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Jumping like a catfish on a pole, yeah
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (King Creole)
You know he’s gone, gone, gone
Hip-shaking King Creole (Creole, Creole, Creole, Creole)