Elvis Presley – Song Of The Shrimp

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “Song of the Shrimp”. Now that’s a tune that takes you back, doesn’t it? Released in 1962, nestled amongst the beachside charm of the film Girls! Girls! Girls!, this little number might not be the King’s most iconic, but it certainly holds a unique place in his vast discography.

Composed by the songwriting duo of Roy C. Bennett and Sid Tepper, “Song of the Shrimp” is a quirky, lighthearted novelty song that injects a dose of playful humor into Presley’s usual repertoire. Backed by the legendary Scotty Moore on lead guitar, with a tight rhythm section featuring Ray Siegel on bass and D.J. Fontana on drums, the song shimmers with a classic rock and roll energy. Don’t forget the unmistakable saxophone stylings of Boots Randolph, adding his signature touch to the playful melody.

While the film itself was a breezy romantic comedy, “Song of the Shrimp” stands out for its sheer oddity. The lyrics, delivered with Presley’s characteristic charm, tell the tale of a restless shrimp who dreams of escaping the ordinary life under the sea. Armed with a newspaper clipping promising a luxurious stay in New Orleans, complete with a “Big Creole gal who help you come out of your shell,” our ambitious crustacean bids farewell to his family and willingly jumps into the shrimper’s net.

Now, one might argue that “Song of the Shrimp” isn’t exactly a lyrical masterpiece. But within the context of the film and Presley’s career, it serves a purpose. It’s a brief, lighthearted diversion, a palate cleanser between the more serious ballads and the rock and roll anthems. It also showcases Presley’s versatility as a performer. He can effortlessly switch from smoldering heartthrob to a charismatic storyteller, weaving a fantastical tale about a rebellious shrimp with a twinkle in his eye.

While the song itself may not have reached the dizzying heights of Presley’s chart-toppers, it did manage to leave a mark. It’s become a cult classic amongst fans, a delightful oddity that reminds us of the King’s playful spirit and his willingness to experiment within the confines of his genre. So, the next time you hear the opening notes of “Song of the Shrimp,” take a moment to appreciate this quirky gem – a testament to Elvis’s undeniable charisma and the enduring power of a good, silly song.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Song Of The Shrimp”
(from “Girls! Girls! Girls!” soundtrack)

I saw three shrimp in the water, two were old and gray
I swam a little bit closer and .. I heard the third one sayGoodbye mama shrimp, papa shake my hand
Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’
Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’

He showed his mama and papa, the shrimp newspaper he read
An invitation to all the shrimp and this is what it said
Free ride, New Orleans, stay in grand hotel
Big Creole gal who help you come out of your shell
Big Creole gal who help you come out of your shell

If I should live to be ninety, I will never forget
The little shrimp and the song he sang as he jumped into the net

Goodbye mama shrimp, papa shake my hand
Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’
Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’