Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s “What a Wonderful Life” isn’t your typical rock and roll anthem. Released in 1962, the song takes a more contemplative turn, showcasing a different side of the King of Rock and Roll. While not explicitly credited as a producer on the recording, Colonel Tom Parker, Presley’s longtime manager, undoubtedly played a role in shaping the musical direction of his films and recordings during this era.
Though not a chart-topping hit, “What a Wonderful Life” has become a beloved gem among Elvis fans. It served as the opening theme for the 1962 film Follow That Dream, a lighthearted comedy following Presley’s character as he pursues his dream of owning a ranch. The contrast between the film’s comedic tone and the song’s introspective lyrics creates an interesting dynamic, offering a glimpse into Presley’s own capacity for emotional depth.
The song itself is a ballad, a genre Presley embraced throughout his career. Unlike his high-energy rockers, ballads allowed him to showcase the rich, soulful undercurrents of his voice. In “What a Wonderful Life,” his vocals take on a smooth and sincere quality, perfectly capturing the song’s message of contentment and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
Thematically, the song departs from the usual themes of love and heartbreak associated with Presley’s music. Instead, “What a Wonderful Life” expresses a sense of gratitude for the good things in life, even the seemingly mundane. Lines like “I got sunshine in the morning, and moonlight in my hair” and “I got friends by the rainbow, life’s good to me” paint a picture of someone who finds joy in the everyday. There’s a hint of wistfulness in the melody, suggesting a deeper reflection on life’s journey.
“What a Wonderful Life” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s versatility as a musician. While he is undeniably the King of Rock and Roll, this song proves he could deliver a heartfelt ballad with just as much conviction. The song continues to resonate with fans, offering a welcome respite from the high-octane energy of his rock and roll hits.
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Lyrics:
“What A Wonderful Life”
It’s a wonderful life
This life I’m livin’
What a wonderful life, days with a life of ease, oh-ho-oh
Well, I’ve got no job to worry me
No big bad boss to hurry me
It’s a wonderful life life’s good to meIt’s a wonderful road
This road I’m travelin’
It’s a wonderful road headin’ beyond the hills, oh-ho-oh
Oh it may go straight or it may detour
But one thing that I know for sure
It’s a wonderful life, life’s good to meDon’t know where I’m goin’
Don’t care where I’m goin’
Like the four winds are blowin’ I go on
Laughin’ the day away, lovin the night away
Till the moon is gone
It’s a wonderful life
This life I’m livin’
What a wonderful life
Livin’ the life I love, oh yeah
Well I’ve got neighbors, I’ve got friends
Just about anywhere the rainbow ends
It’s a wonderful life, life’s good to meDon’t know where I’m goin’
Don’t care where I’m goin’
Like the four winds are blowin’ I go on
Laughin’ the day away, lovin the night away
Till the moon is gone
It’s a wonderful life
This life I’m livin’
What a wonderful life
Livin’ the life I love, oh yeah
Well I’ve got neighbors, I’ve got friends
Just about anywhere the rainbow ends
It’s a wonderful life, life’s good to me
What a wonderful life, life’s good to me, yeah
Crazy life, life’s good to me
Oh what a life