Introduction:
Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “I’m Movin’ On” – a potent cocktail of bluesy swagger and country heartache, served up in pure Presley style. Released in 1969 on his critically acclaimed album “From Elvis in Memphis”, the song marked a turning point for the King.
Now, by 1969, Elvis had conquered the world. From his electrifying early rock and roll days to the polished Hollywood musicals, he was a global phenomenon. But commercially, the 60s had been a bit of a rollercoaster. The sound of rock and roll was evolving, and Elvis, stuck in a string of forgettable movie soundtracks, wasn’t quite keeping pace.
Enter producer Chips Moman. Moman, known for his stripped-down, soulful approach with artists like Aretha Franklin and Wilson Pickett, took the reins for “From Elvis in Memphis.” He ushered Elvis back into the studio in Memphis, away from the glitz of Hollywood, and surrounded him with a crack team of local musicians. This return to his roots – both musical and geographical – is palpable on every track, and “I’m Movin’ On” is no exception.
The song itself is a cover, originally written and performed by country legend Hank Snow in 1950. Elvis, however, injects his own brand of rockabilly fire into the track. The chugging rhythm section, courtesy of bassist Tommy Cogbill and drummer D.J. Fontana, lays down a solid foundation. Then, the unmistakable Scotty Moore steps in with his stinging guitar work, weaving a tale of heartbreak alongside Elvis’s powerful vocals.
“I’m Movin’ On” isn’t a ballad, mind you. There’s a simmering anger beneath the surface, a man determined to pick himself up and dust himself off after love gone wrong. Elvis doesn’t wallow; he declares his independence with a growl in his voice and a resolute shake of the hips (one can almost picture it!). It’s a testament to his charisma that he can take a country heartbreak song and transform it into an anthem of resilience.
The impact of “I’m Movin’ On” was undeniable. Critically acclaimed as a highlight of the “From Elvis in Memphis” album, it became a fan favorite and a staple of his live shows. It wasn’t a chart-topping smash, but it resonated deeply with audiences. Here was the Elvis they loved: raw, passionate, and in complete control. “I’m Movin’ On” stands as a testament to the King’s enduring legacy, a reminder of his ability to breathe new life into any song he touched, and a powerful declaration that even the King of Rock and Roll could get his heart broken, but he wouldn’t be held down.
Video:
Lyrics:
“I’m Movin’ On”
Mean your true lovin’ Daddy ain’t comin’ back
‘Cause he’s movin’ on, he’s rollin’ on
You were flyin’ too high for my little old sky
So I’m movin’ on
But some day, baby, when you’ve had your play
Your gonna want your daddy but your daddy will say
Keep movin’ on, keep rollin’ on
You were flyin’ too high for my little old sky
So I’m movin’ on, move on, baby
Mr. Fireman, won’t you please listen to me?
‘Cause I gotta pretty momma in Tennessee
To keep rollin’ on, keep movin’ on
Please listen to me, let this rattler free
Keep movin’ on, move on, son, move on
Well, I told you, baby, from time to time
But you just wouldn’t listen or pay me no mind
And now I’m movin’ on, I’m rollin’ on
I’m through with you, too bad you’re blue
But I’m movin’ on, move on, baby, move on
I said, “Move on”, I said, “Move on”
I said, “Move on”, I said, “Move on”
I said, “Move on”, I said, “Move on”
Well, I’m through with you, too bad you’re blue
I said, “Move on”
I said, “Move on”, I said, “Move on”
I said, “Move on”, I said, “Move on”
I’m through with you but too bad you’re blue
I said, “Move on”
Hey, hey, hey, move on, I said, “Move on”
Hey, hey, I said, “Move on”, I said, “Move on”
I’m through with you but too bad you’re blue
I said, “Move on, move on, move on”
I said, “Move on”, I said, “Move on”
I said, “Move on”, I said, “Move on”