Introduction:
Charro! is a unique musical piece by the iconic Elvis Presley. Released in 1970, it stands out as an atypical entry in the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s discography. While primarily known for his revolutionary contributions to rock and roll, pop, and country music, this track ventures into the realm of film score.
Rather than a standalone single or album track, “Charro!” is the main title theme for the 1969 Western film of the same name, starring Presley himself. The film, a departure from the musical comedies that had dominated his career during the 1960s, marked a serious attempt by Presley to establish his credentials as a dramatic actor. To underscore the film’s gritty Western atmosphere, composer Hugo Montenegro created the score, including the memorable main title theme.
While Presley doesn’t sing on the track, his name is intrinsically linked to the piece due to its prominence in the film. The song, a dramatic instrumental with a strong orchestral arrangement, perfectly captures the spirit of the American West. It blends elements of traditional Western music with cinematic orchestration, creating a powerful and evocative piece.
While not a chart-topping hit in the same way as many of Presley’s songs, “Charro!” has garnered a dedicated following among fans of both Elvis and Western film music. It remains a notable piece in Presley’s extensive body of work, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his willingness to explore new musical territories.
Video:
Lyrics:
Charro
With eyes that hide the man withinYou see behind the eyes of, other menYou’ve lived and died and come to life againAnd now you stand alone at the crossroads of your mindYou’ve left your yesterdays behind..But which road leads you to tomorrow?Charro…You’ve turned your back on yesterdayBetrayed a man who swore he’d make you payFor when you left you took his pride awayYou know he’ll never let you break away so easilyYou’ll have to fight, before you’re freeBut how much more time can you borrow?Charro…Now in a single moment your past grows dimOne thought goes racing across your mindYou ride to meet the woman you stole from himOh no!…Charro don’t go!…Charro don’t go!!…There’s something hanging, in the windYour past is catching up and closing inYou’ve been halfway to hell and back againAnd now you laugh in the devil’s facewith your last breath…You’ll run a race with life and death…But will you live to see tomorrow?Charro…