Introduction:
Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “Ito Eats”. Released in 1961, this little gem is a delightful piece tucked away in the soundtrack for the movie Blue Hawaii. Now, for those unfamiliar with the King’s filmography, this period marked a particular shift in his career. The early rock and roll years, the ones that sent teenagers into a frenzy, had begun to mellow a touch. Elvis was still undeniably charismatic, but the sound was evolving.
“Ito Eats” perfectly exemplifies this transition. Sure, there’s a hint of that signature Presley swagger in the vocal delivery, but listen closely, and you’ll hear a foray into a breezy, sun-drenched soundscape. This is tropical Elvis, baby!
The credited songwriters are Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, a duo who churned out numerous hits for Elvis throughout the 1960s. They crafted a simple yet effective melody here, one that evokes the swaying palm trees and gentle ocean waves of Hawaii. The instrumentation is light and playful, featuring a prominent ukulele alongside the more standard guitar and bass combo. A touch of harmonica adds a touch of folksy charm.
“Ito Eats” wasn’t a chart-topping sensation by any means. It wasn’t meant to be. This song is a mood piece, a sonic postcard from paradise. But within the context of the film Blue Hawaii, it serves a vital purpose. The movie itself is a lighthearted romantic comedy, a showcase for Elvis’s charisma amidst the picture-perfect Hawaiian backdrop. “Ito Eats” seamlessly blends with this atmosphere, transporting the listener to a world of relaxation and carefree vibes.
It’s also worth mentioning the backing vocals on this track. The Jordanaires and The Surfers, two vocal groups that frequently collaborated with Elvis, add a layer of richness and texture. Their smooth harmonies perfectly complement Presley’s lead vocal, creating a sense of laid-back sophistication.
Now, “Ito Eats” might not be the first song that springs to mind when discussing Elvis Presley’s greatest hits. But for those who appreciate the breadth of his artistry, and his ability to adapt to different musical styles, this song holds a certain charm. It’s a reminder that Elvis wasn’t just the king of rock and roll; he was a versatile performer who could deliver a heartfelt ballad or, in this case, a delightful slice of Hawaiian sunshine, all with that unmistakable Presley magic.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Ito Eats”
(from “Blue Hawaii” soundtrack)
Ito eat like teeth are out of style
Ito eating all the while
Eat Ito eat all the night and the day
Eat Ito eat all the night and the day
Ito is an eating boy
He never get enough from fish and poi
He eat everything he don’t care what
He even eat the shell from the coconut
Eat Ito eat all the night and the day
Eat Ito eat all the night and the day
Hey, Ito little faster
Ito little slower
Ito eat like teeth are out of style
Ito eat like teeth are out of style
When you say that stranger smile
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh