Elvis Presley – I Was Born About Ten Thousand Years Ago

Introduction:

Not all of Elvis Presley’s recordings were upbeat, rock-and-roll anthems that set the stage for a musical revolution. “I Was Born About Ten Thousand Years Ago”, released in 1972 on the album Elvis Now, showcased a different side of the King. This rock and roll ballad presented a more introspective and melancholic Presley, a departure from his signature sound.

The song’s producer, Felton Jarvis, was a longtime collaborator with Presley throughout the 1970s. Otis Blackwell, a prolific songwriter who penned many of Presley’s early hits including “All Shook Up” and “Don’t Be Cruel,” is credited with writing “I Was Born About Ten Thousand Years Ago.” While the song never achieved the chart-topping success of Presley’s early releases, it remains a fascinating record that demonstrates the versatility of the artist and the evolution of his sound throughout his career.

The intriguing title of “I Was Born About Ten Thousand Years Ago” immediately sets the stage for a unique listening experience. The lyrics delve into themes of loneliness, weariness, and a longing for connection. The narrator describes himself as an ancient soul who has seen centuries go by, a stark contrast to the youthful exuberance that characterized Presley’s persona in the 1950s.

Despite the somber tone, “I Was Born About Ten Thousand Years Ago” still showcases Presley’s undeniable charisma and powerful vocals. His delivery is filled with emotion, conveying the weariness and yearning expressed in the lyrics. The song’s instrumentation is understated, with a focus on piano and gentle backing vocals that complement Presley’s performance.

“I Was Born About Ten Thousand Years Ago” may not be one of Elvis Presley’s most famous songs, but it offers a valuable glimpse into the artist’s development as a musician. The song’s melancholy mood and introspective lyrics stand out from his earlier work, demonstrating his willingness to explore a wider range of musical territory. It serves as a reminder that even the King of Rock and Roll wasn’t afraid to slow down and explore the quieter side of his soul.

Video:

Lyrics:

“I Was Born About Ten Thousand Years Ago”

I saw old pharaoh’s daughter bring Moses from the water
I’ll lick the guy that says it isn’t soI was born about ten thousand years ago
There ain’t nothing in this world that I don’t know
I saved king David’s life and he offered me a wife
I said now you’re talking business have a chair

Yeah, I was born about ten thousand years ago
Ain’t nothing in this world that I don’t know
Saw Peter, Paul and Moses playing ring around the roses
I’ll lick the guy that says it isn’t so

I was born about ten thousand years ago
Ain’t nothing in this world that I don’t know
I saw old pharaoh’s daughter bring Moses from the water
I’ll lick the guy that says it isn’t so

I was there when old Noah built the ark
And I crawled in the window after dark
I saw Jonah eat the whale and dance with the lion’s tale
And I crossed over Canaan on a log

I was born about ten thousand years ago
Ain’t nothing in this world that I don’t know
I saw old pharaoh’s daughter bring Moses from the water
I’ll lick the guy that says it isn’t so

Yeah, I was born about ten thousand years ago
Ain’t nothing in this world that I don’t know
Saw Peter, Paul and Moses playing ring around the roses
I’ll lick the guy that says it isn’t so

I was there when old Noah built the ark
And I crawled in the window after dark
I saw Jonah eat the whale and dance with the lion’s tale
And I crossed over Canaan on a log

I was born about ten thousand years ago
There ain’t nothing in this world that I don’t know
I saved king David’s life and he offered me a wife
I said now you’re talking business have a chair

Yeah, I was born about ten thousand years ago
Ain’t nothing in this world that I don’t know
Saw Peter, Paul and Moses playing ring around the roses
I’ll lick the guy that says it isn’t so