I Washed My Hands In Muddy Water – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water” is a song that was notably recorded by Elvis Presley in 1970 and released as part of his album Elvis Country (I’m 10,000 Years Old) in January 1971. This song, originally written by Joe Babcock, is a prime example of the country and rockabilly fusion that characterized much of Presley’s music during this period. While the track is rooted in traditional country music, Presley’s rendition adds a bluesy, rock-influenced twist, embodying his ability to blend genres and appeal to a broad audience.

The song itself has an intriguing history before Presley got hold of it. It was originally recorded by Stonewall Jackson, a country music singer, in 1965. Jackson’s version of the song reached number 8 on the Billboard Country Singles chart, making it a popular tune in country circles. When Presley covered the song, he brought his own dynamic vocal delivery, adding more grit and intensity to the already powerful lyrics.

I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water tells the story of a man trying to outrun the consequences of his criminal actions, despite his attempts at reform. The narrator confesses his crimes, seeks redemption, but ultimately finds that he can’t wash away the stains of his past, despite his efforts. The song’s theme of personal struggle and redemption was a perfect fit for Presley, who was known for his deep emotional connection to his music, particularly during this phase of his career.

The album Elvis Country (I’m 10,000 Years Old), where the song appears, was a commercially successful project for Presley, reaching number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album is also recognized as one of his more mature works, showcasing his growing interest in returning to his roots in country and gospel music. Though I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water was not released as a single, its inclusion in this album is an example of Presley’s ability to give a fresh perspective to established country hits. His powerful, soulful rendition of the song contributed to the album’s acclaim and his ongoing legacy as a versatile performer across musical genres.

Video:

Lyrics:

“I Washed My Hands In Muddy Water”

I was born in Macon Georgia
They kept my daddy over in Macon jail
He told me if you keep your hands clean
You won’t hear them bloodhounds on your trailWell I fell in with bad companions
Robbed a man, oh up in Tennessee
They caught me way up in Nashville
They locked me up and threw away the key

I washed my hands in muddy water
Washed my hands, but they didn’t come clean
Tried to do what my daddy told me
But I must have washed my hands in a muddy stream

Well I asked the judge now when’s my time up
He said son, oh you know we won’t forget
If you try just to keep your hands clean
We might just make a good man of you yet

Oh I couldn’t wait to get my time up
I broke out, broke out of Nashville jail
I just crossed the state-line of Georgia
Well I can hear those bloodhounds on my trail

I washed my hands in muddy water
Washed my hands, but they didn’t come clean
Tried to do what my daddy told me
But I must have washed my hands in a muddy stream