Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s “What Every Woman Lives For” is a track that showcases the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s enduring appeal and his versatility as an artist. Released in 1964, the song was a part of the soundtrack for the film Roustabout, which was also the title of his 14th studio album. This album, released by RCA Victor, was a critical and commercial success, solidifying Presley’s status as one of the top entertainers of his time.
The song itself is a poignant ballad that reflects the themes of love and romance prevalent in many of Presley’s works. It is characteristic of the pop and rock ‘n’ roll genres that defined his career, though it leans more towards the softer, melodious side of his repertoire. The arrangement features lush orchestration and Presley’s smooth vocal delivery, which together create a sentimental and engaging listening experience.
The film Roustabout was one of several movies Elvis Presley starred in during the 1960s, a period when his career was diversified into both music and film. While Presley had a reputation for his energetic rock and roll hits, Roustabout allowed him to explore more varied musical styles, and “What Every Woman Lives For” stands out as one of the softer, romantic tracks from this period. The song, although not one of Presley’s most famous hits, still highlights his ability to deliver heartfelt performances.
In terms of achievements, while “What Every Woman Lives For” may not have topped charts or garnered major awards, it contributed to the overall success of the Roustabout album, which reached No. 6 on the Billboard Top LPs chart. Presley’s popularity during this era remained high, and his films, including Roustabout, helped maintain his status as a major cultural figure.
Overall, “What Every Woman Lives For” is a testament to Elvis Presley’s range as an artist and his capacity to convey deep emotions through his music, enriching his already diverse discography.
Video:
Lyrics:
“What Every Woman Lives For”
(from “Frankie And Johnny” soundtrack)She may say she needs fancy bangles and beads
That’s part of a woman’s plan
But what every woman lives for
What every woman lives for
Is to give her love to a manWise men have known women can’t live alone
So a woman should understand
That what every woman lives for
What every woman lives for
Is to give her love to a manHe may not be the kind you find in picture books
A real life hero with dashing handsome looks
He may not be the guy that you’ve been dreaming of
But that won’t stop you from giving him your loveSo dear, can’t you see that it was meant to be
It’s part, part of our destiny
‘Cause what every woman lives for
What every woman lives for
Is to give her love to a man
And I hope that man is me