Introduction:
“What’d I Say” is a seminal track in the annals of music history, originally crafted and performed by the legendary Ray Charles in 1959. This song not only marked a pivotal moment in Charles’s career but also left an indelible imprint on the musical landscape, influencing countless artists across genres. One such artist profoundly impacted by this track was Elvis Presley, who, in 1963, recorded his rendition of “What’d I Say” for the soundtrack of his film “Viva Las Vegas.” Presley’s version, released as a single in 1964, showcased his unique interpretation of the song, blending his rock and roll sensibilities with the soulful essence of the original.
Year of Release and Album Association
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “What’d I Say” was recorded on August 30, 1963, at Radio Recorders studio in Hollywood, California. This recording was part of the soundtrack for his film “Viva Las Vegas,” which co-starred Ann-Margret. The film, a musical romantic comedy set against the vibrant backdrop of Las Vegas, featured Presley as a race car driver with musical aspirations. The “Viva Las Vegas” soundtrack, however, was not initially released as a full-length album. Instead, RCA Victor chose to issue an extended play (EP) record in May 1964, containing four songs from the film, including the title track. “What’d I Say” was notably released as the B-side to the “Viva Las Vegas” single on April 28, 1964. This strategic release capitalized on the film’s popularity, aiming to provide fans with the musical highlights from the movie.
Musical Genre
The original “What’d I Say” by Ray Charles is celebrated for its fusion of rhythm and blues with gospel elements, a combination that played a significant role in the development of soul music. Elvis Presley’s interpretation retained the core rhythm and blues foundation but infused it with his distinctive rock and roll flair. This blend resulted in a high-energy performance characterized by dynamic vocals, spirited instrumentation, and an infectious groove that resonated with a broad audience. Presley’s version exemplifies his ability to take existing musical styles and reinterpret them through his unique artistic lens, thereby contributing to the evolution of rock and roll.
Achievements and Chart Performance
Upon its release, the “Viva Las Vegas” single, with “What’d I Say” as its B-side, achieved notable commercial success. “What’d I Say” peaked at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, demonstrating its popularity among listeners. The song’s energetic arrangement and Presley’s charismatic delivery contributed to its appeal, securing its place as a memorable track in his discography. Additionally, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified the single as gold on March 27, 1992, signifying sales of over 500,000 copies in the United States. This certification underscores the enduring popularity of both the song and the “Viva Las Vegas” single.
Historical Context and Legacy
The inclusion of “What’d I Say” in the “Viva Las Vegas” film and its subsequent release as a single highlight Elvis Presley’s admiration for Ray Charles and his desire to pay homage to the musical influences that shaped his artistry. Presley’s rendition brought the song to a wider audience, bridging the gap between rhythm and blues and mainstream rock and roll. The performance in the film, featuring a dynamic dance sequence with Ann-Margret, further cemented the song’s association with the vibrant energy of 1960s pop culture.
Over the years, “What’d I Say” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, attesting to its versatility and enduring appeal. Elvis Presley’s version remains a significant interpretation, reflecting his ability to reinterpret and popularize songs beyond their original contexts. The track continues to be celebrated for its contribution to the fusion of musical styles and its role in the broader narrative of American music history.
In summary, Elvis Presley’s rendition of “What’d I Say” stands as a testament to his musical versatility and his capacity to honor and elevate the works of fellow artists. Through this recording, Presley not only paid tribute to Ray Charles but also enriched his own musical repertoire, leaving a lasting impact on the rock and roll genre.