Elvis Presley’s “Steamroller Blues”: A King-Sized Take on a Modern Classic
In the heart of the 1970s, Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, took a bold step by adding a song called “Steamroller Blues” to his live shows. This wasn’t a classic Elvis ballad or a rockabilly rave-up. It was a bluesy, tongue-in-cheek tune originally written by singer-songwriter James Taylor. Elvis, with his keen ear for a good song and his knack for making it his own, transformed “Steamroller Blues” into a show-stopping highlight of his concerts.
The song’s inclusion in his legendary Aloha from Hawaii: Via Satellite concert in 1973 solidified its place in Elvis lore. This wasn’t just any concert; it was a groundbreaking satellite broadcast that reached an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide. Elvis, dressed in his iconic American Eagle jumpsuit, delivered a performance that was both electrifying and intimate. “Steamroller Blues” became an instant fan favorite, showcasing Elvis’s ability to connect with audiences through a wide range of musical styles.
The studio version of “Steamroller Blues,” released as a single in 1973, further cemented its popularity. It climbed the charts, reaching number 17 on the Billboard U.S. pop singles chart. The song’s success wasn’t just a testament to Elvis’s enduring star power; it also introduced a new generation of listeners to the blues, a genre that had always been close to Elvis’s heart.
“Steamroller Blues” remains a beloved part of Elvis’s legacy. It’s a reminder of his willingness to experiment, his ability to bridge musical genres, and his unwavering commitment to entertaining his fans. Whether you’re a lifelong Elvis enthusiast or a newcomer to his music, “Steamroller Blues” is a testament to the King’s enduring appeal and his ability to make any song his own.
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Lyrics
I’m a steamroller baby
I’m ’bout to roll all over you
I’m a steamroller baby
I’m ’bout to roll all over you
I’m gonna inject your soul
With some sweet rock ‘n’ roll
I’m a cement mixer
A churning urn of burning funk
I’m a cement mixer
A churning urn of burning funk
I’m a demolition derby
A hefty hunk, steaming junk
I’m a steamroller baby
I’m ’bout to roll all over you
I’m a steamroller baby
I’m ’bout to roll all over you
I’m gonna inject your soul
With some sweet rock ‘n’ roll
And shoot you full of rhythm and blues
I’m a napalm bomb
Guaranteed to blow your mind
I’m a napalm bomb
Guaranteed to blow your mind
If I can’t have your love now baby
There won’t be nothing left behind