Elvis Presley – Riding The Rainbow

Introduction:

“Riding the Rainbow” is a song by Elvis Presley, released in 1962 as part of the soundtrack for the movie “Kid Galahad.” Elvis starred in the film, playing the role of a boxer named Walter Gulick. This period in Presley’s career marked a phase where he was heavily involved in making Hollywood films, with many of his songs from that time serving as part of these soundtracks. “Riding the Rainbow” is one such track, embodying the fun and energetic style characteristic of many of the songs he recorded for his films during the early 1960s.

The song belongs to the rock and roll genre, with elements of pop that were common in Presley’s work during this era. Written by Fred Wise and Ben Weisman, two frequent collaborators in Elvis’ film music, “Riding the Rainbow” is an upbeat and cheerful tune. It captures a sense of carefree optimism, fitting the light-hearted tone of the movie “Kid Galahad”, which, despite its boxing theme, was a romantic musical comedy-drama.

Although “Riding the Rainbow” was not released as a standalone single, it is a significant track on the Kid Galahad soundtrack, which was issued as an extended play (EP) in 1962. The EP featured six songs from the movie, including other notable tracks like “King of the Whole Wide World” and “I Got Lucky.” The EP itself was relatively successful, peaking at number 30 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart, and further demonstrated Elvis’ ability to blend his musical career with his movie stardom.

While “Riding the Rainbow” may not be one of Elvis’ most commercially successful or well-known songs, it remains a charming part of his extensive catalog. The song, like many from his movie soundtracks, showcases Elvis’ versatility as both a singer and actor, capable of delivering performances that were fun, lively, and appealing to a broad audience. His work during this period played a pivotal role in cementing his status not only as the “King of Rock and Roll” but also as a major Hollywood star.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Riding The Rainbow”

I’m riding the rainbow
Hitting the highway to happiness
Oh yes, I’m looking to find someone
Whose meant to be mineI’m living to love and loving to live
I’ve got a heart, I’m longing to give
I’m riding the rainbow
I’ll follow that star to where you are

I’m riding the rainbow
Heading for heaven and happiness
I guess somebody somewhere
Someday will teach me to care

But being alone
Don’t bother me
I’m free to have fun
It’s fun to be free

I’m riding the rainbow
I’ll follow that star
I’m riding the rainbow
To where you are