Wheels On My Heels – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Wheels on My Heels” is a song by Elvis Presley, featured in the 1964 musical comedy film Roustabout. Directed by John Rich and co-starring Barbara Stanwyck and Joan Freeman, Roustabout follows the story of a drifter, played by Presley, who works at a carnival while pursuing a career as a singer. The film’s soundtrack, including “Wheels on My Heels,” was released in the same year by RCA Victor as the Roustabout album, Presley’s 21st studio record. The album peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, securing Presley’s status as one of the top performers of his era.

Musically, “Wheels on My Heels” falls within the rock and roll and pop genres, with some elements of country. The song was composed by songwriters Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, who were frequent collaborators with Presley. Their work, often known for blending catchy melodies with relatable lyrics, contributed to many of the singer’s film soundtracks throughout the 1960s. In “Wheels on My Heels,” Presley embodies the persona of a restless wanderer, reflecting the free-spirited character he portrayed in Roustabout. The song’s lively tempo and energetic delivery match the film’s adventurous tone and themes of independence.

Although “Wheels on My Heels” wasn’t released as a standalone single, the Roustabout soundtrack was highly successful. It became Presley’s sixth soundtrack album to reach No. 1 on the charts, marking an important moment in his career, especially as the mid-1960s saw shifts in musical trends with the British Invasion. The album was certified Gold by the RIAA, adding another accolade to Presley’s extensive catalog.

“Wheels on My Heels” is not one of Elvis’s more iconic tracks, but it is emblematic of his film career and the period when his music was often closely tied to his roles in Hollywood. The song captures a sense of movement and independence, matching Presley’s image as both a musician and an actor in the 1960s.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Wheels On My Heels”
(from “Roustabout” soundtrack)

Gotta do some livin’, got the wanderlust
Better clear the highway ’cause I’m gonna move some dust
Oh I got wheels, wheels on my heels
And I gotta keep rollin’, rolling alongLots of pretty dollies try to fence me in
But I love ’em and leave ’em ’cause a tumbleweed’s my kin
Oh I got wheels, wheels on my heels
And I gotta keep rollin’, rolling along

Why do I keep movin’, never settlin’ down
Can it be I’m looking for a dream I haven’t found
Oh I got wheels, wheels on my heels
And I gotta keep rollin’, rolling along

Oh I got wheels, wheels on my heels
And I gotta keep rollin’, rolling along