Hard Headed Woman – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Hard Headed Woman” by Elvis Presley was released on June 10, 1958, as a key track on the soundtrack for his film King Creole. Written by Claude Demetrius, the song stands out as a powerful rockabilly number that showcases Presley’s energetic vocal style and charismatic presence. It was recorded in January 1958 at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, where Presley was joined by his regular band members, including guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black, as well as additional musicians like the Jordanaires, who provided vocal harmonies, and prominent jazz instrumentalists who enhanced the song’s lively brass and percussion sections.

The single was released by RCA Victor and became an immediate commercial success, hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the top of the Billboard Country and R&B charts. This success made Elvis the first artist to simultaneously hold the top spot across these three genres. “Hard Headed Woman” also achieved gold certification, symbolizing its widespread popularity and solidifying Presley’s influence across multiple music markets. Additionally, it marked a significant cultural moment, as it became the first rock-and-roll song to receive a Gold Record from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), underscoring its impact on the genre’s growth and recognition.

With lyrics reflecting the timeless themes of love and frustration, “Hard Headed Woman” has since become an iconic Elvis track and a classic example of 1950s rock and roll. It’s celebrated not only for its commercial success but also for its energetic blend of rockabilly with New Orleans jazz influences, capturing the essence of Presley’s musical versatility and the sound of an era​.

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Lyrics:

“Hard Headed Woman”