It’s A Wonderful World – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

Elvis Presley’s song “It’s a Wonderful World” was recorded on March 2, 1964, and released later that year as part of the soundtrack for the film Roustabout. The movie, a musical drama, starred Elvis as a drifter and carnival worker, and the song complements the film’s upbeat and feel-good themes. Written by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, the song is one of many Presley recorded during his film career, which heavily featured soundtracks in the 1960s.

Musically, “It’s a Wonderful World” is characterized by its light-hearted, breezy feel, with a mix of pop and soft rock influences typical of the era’s movie soundtracks. Elvis’ vocals convey a sense of optimism and warmth, making it a perfect fit for the sentimental tone of Roustabout. The arrangement features contributions from well-known musicians like guitarist Barney Kessel and saxophonist Boots Randolph, giving the song its polished, upbeat sound.

Though it wasn’t a standalone hit, “It’s a Wonderful World” holds a special place among Elvis fans and showcases his versatility as a performer. In the context of his broader career, the song is part of the transitional period when Elvis was moving away from strictly rock and roll to a more diverse array of musical styles. While not achieving the same commercial success as some of his earlier work, “It’s a Wonderful World” remains a beloved piece of Elvis’s extensive catalog and reflects the more relaxed, movie-driven phase of his 1960s output.

Video:

Lyrics:

“It’s A Wonderful World”
(from “Roustabout” soundtrack)

Young as a circus parade, it’s a wonderful world
Pretty as pink lemonade, it’s a wonderful world
Life is a carnival, live it for all your worth
You are the star of the greatest show on earth

This big wide world is a clown with his nose painted red
A rainbow colored balloon’s dancing high overhead
It’s everyone’s oyster, step up get your pearl
It’s a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful, wonderful world

This big wide world is a clown with his nose painted red
A rainbow colored balloon’s dancing high overhead
It’s everyone’s oyster, step up get your pearl
It’s a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful, wonderful world
It’s a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful, wonderful world