Introduction:
Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do!”. Now that’s a song that takes you right back to a simpler time, doesn’t it? Released in 1957, it was a pivotal year for the young Elvis. Rock and roll was still a fledgling genre, but Presley, with his undeniable charisma and electrifying stage presence, was spearheading its meteoric rise.
“Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do!” wasn’t just another single. It was part of the soundtrack for Presley’s second film, Loving You. Back then, these Hollywood musicals were a launchpad for many a rising star, and Elvis was no exception. The film itself wasn’t exactly high cinema, but it served its purpose: showcasing the young singer’s magnetism and, of course, his music.
The song itself is a prime example of what made Elvis such a phenomenon. Written by the songwriting duo of Aaron Schroeder and Ben Weisman, it’s a rock and roll anthem for the young and restless. The driving rhythm section, courtesy of the legendary Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums, lays down a foundation that’s both solid and propulsive. It’s a sound that’s unmistakably rooted in the blues, but with a youthful exuberance that was entirely new and electrifying for audiences of the time.
Then there’s Elvis himself. His vocal performance on “Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do!” is pure Presley. Powerful yet nuanced, he imbues the song with a youthful exuberance that perfectly captures the sentiment of the lyrics. It’s not just about the act of living, it’s about embracing life with wide-eyed wonder and a relentless thirst for experience. It’s a sentiment that resonated deeply with teenagers of the era, a generation yearning to break free from the shackles of post-war conservatism.
Now, some might argue that “Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do!” isn’t one of Presley’s most complex songs. It’s true, the lyrics are straightforward and the melody catchy. But that’s precisely what makes it so effective. It’s a song that speaks a universal language, the language of youthful optimism and the desire to make your mark on the world. It’s a sentiment that transcends generations, ensuring “Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do!” remains a rock and roll classic.
The song’s impact wasn’t limited to the cultural landscape. Commercially, it was a solid hit, reaching number two on the UK charts. It further cemented Presley’s status as a global superstar and helped solidify rock and roll’s position as the music of a generation.
So, when you hear the opening bars of “Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do!”, it’s not just a song you’re listening to. It’s a window into a bygone era, a time of youthful rebellion and the birth of a musical revolution. It’s a reminder of the raw energy and unadulterated joy that Elvis Presley brought to the world.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do”
(from “Loving You” soundtrack)
A whole lot o’ loving to do
Come on baby, to make it fun it takes two
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
And there’s no one who I’d rather do it with-a than youThere’s a moon that’s big and bright in the milky way tonight
But the way you act you never would know it’s there
So baby, time’s a wasting
A lot of kisses I ain’t been tasting
I don’t know about you but I’m gonna get my shareOh got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
Come on baby, to make it fun it takes two
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
And there’s no one who I’d rather do it with-a than you
There’s a balmy little breeze
That’s whistling through the trees
And it’s telling you to pitch a little woo with me
Why don’t you take a listen
You’ll never know what you’ve been missing
Cuddle up a little closer and be my little honey bee
Oh got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
Come on baby, to make it fun it takes two
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
And there’s no one who I’d rather do it with-a than you
You’re the prettiest thing I’ve seen
But you treat me so doggone mean
Ain’t you got no heart, I’m dying to hold you near
Why do you keep me waiting
Why don’t you start co-operating
And the things I say are things you want to hear
Oh got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
Come on baby, to make it fun it takes two
Oh yes I’ve got a lot o’ living to do
A whole lot o’ loving to do
And there’s no one who I’d rather do it with-a than you