Elvis Presley – Baby, What You Want Me To Do

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “Baby, What You Want Me To Do”. Now that’s a song that takes you back, doesn’t it? Released in 1968, it wasn’t actually a new Presley composition. It was a cover of a blues number written and originally recorded by Jimmy Reed in 1959. But let me tell you, when The King sunk his teeth into this song, it became something entirely different.

This was a pivotal year for Presley. After a period of focusing on Hollywood musicals, “Elvis Presley’s ’68 Comeback Special” marked a triumphant return to his roots. The show, filmed intially for television, was a raw and energetic affair, stripping away the glitz and putting the focus squarely on Presley’s phenomenal voice and undeniable charisma. “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” was a prime example of this return to form.

Backed by a tight band that crackled with electricity, Presley dives headfirst into the song. There’s a looseness and urgency in his delivery that hadn’t been heard in years. He throws in vocal flourishes and playful ad-libs, his voice as potent as ever. Listen closely, and you can practically feel the sweat dripping from the brow of a man determined to prove himself once again.

But “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” isn’t just about Presley’s raw power. There’s a delicious tension simmering beneath the surface. The lyrics themselves are a classic blues trope – a man pleading with his woman to tell him what he’s done wrong. Presley, however, imbues them with a sly sexuality that’s impossible to ignore. His voice dips and soars, a playful challenge in his tone as he asks, “Baby, what you want me to do?” Is he genuinely confused, or is he just toying with her a bit? That’s the beauty of Presley’s performance – it leaves you guessing.

The song’s impact wasn’t lost on the audience. The “Comeback Special” was a smash hit, reigniting Presley’s career and reminding the world why he was called The King. “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” became a highlight of the show, a testament to Presley’s enduring talent and his ability to take a familiar song and make it his own. It’s a masterclass in blues delivery, a sizzling performance that showcases Presley at his absolute best. So, put on your blue suede shoes, crank up the volume, and prepare to be transported back to a time when The King ruled the airwaves, and every song he touched turned to gold.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Baby, What You Want Me To Do”
(from “Elvis (NBC TV Special)” soundtrack)