Steamroller Blues by Elvis Presley – 1973

Introduction:

Elvis Presley’s electrifying performance of “Steamroller Blues” in 1973 became a surprising highlight of his concert special, “Aloha from Hawaii”. Though not an original Presley composition, the song’s energy and Presley’s charismatic delivery solidified it as a fan favorite.

Originally written by James Taylor in 1970, “Steamroller Blues” was intended as a playful parody of blues music, particularly the wave of inauthentic blues acts gaining popularity at the time. However, when it landed in Presley’s hands for the “Aloha from Hawaii” concert, the song transformed. The track wasn’t included on the initial album release but was added later due to audience demand. Produced by Marty Stuart, who served as Presley’s touring bandleader at the time, the live rendition of “Steamroller Blues” crackles with a raw energy that captivated viewers.

Presley’s “Aloha from Hawaii” concert was a landmark event, broadcasted live via satellite to over 1 billion viewers worldwide. It marked Presley’s return to performing live after a seven-year hiatus focused on film roles. The concert showcased Presley’s enduring talent and charisma, reigniting his career and establishing him as a global icon once again. “Steamroller Blues” became a standout moment within the concert, a testament to Presley’s ability to connect with audiences and breathe new life into any song.

While the original “Steamroller Blues” by James Taylor leaned more towards playful satire, Presley’s version embraced the song’s inherent bluesy spirit. His powerful vocals and the tight backing by his band, known as The Stamps Quartet and The TCB Band, created a dynamic and electrifying performance. Presley’s signature stage presence, complete with his trademark hip gyrations and playful interactions with the audience, further elevated the song’s energy.

“Steamroller Blues” achieved surprising success. The live recording released as a single on Presley’s “Aloha from Hawaii” album unexpectedly reached number one on the Record World Single Chart. This became Presley’s final number one single across four major US charts, solidifying his enduring popularity and the impact of the “Aloha from Hawaii” concert.

“Steamroller Blues” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s unmatched stage presence and his ability to make any song his own. Though not an original composition, the song became a signature moment in Presley’s career, showcasing his raw talent and undeniable connection with audiences.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Steamroller Blues”

I’m a steamroller baby
I’m ’bout to roll all over you
I’m a steamroller baby
I’m ’bout to roll all over you
I’m gonna inject your soul
With sweet rock’n’roll, poor heavenI’m a cement mixer
A churning urn of burning funk
I’m a cement mixer
A churning urn of burning funk
A hefty hunk, steaming junk

I’m a steamroller baby
I’m ’bout to roll over you
I’m a steamroller baby
I’m ’bout to roll over you
I’m gonna inject your soul
With some sweet rock’n’roll
And shoot you full of rhythm and blues

I’m a napalm-bomb
Guaranteed to blow your mind
I’m a napalm-bomb
Guaranteed to blow your mind
If I can’t have your love now baby
There won’t be nothing left behind