Introduction:
Nestled amongst the energetic soundtrack for the 1967 film Easy Come, Easy Go, we find a poignant ballad by the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley. “Sing You Children” stands out from the film’s pop-oriented tracks, offering a tender message of hope and unity.
While details about the song’s production credit are not definitively available, it was recorded during Presley’s prolific film period between 1964 and 1969. Presley is accompanied by his usual group of talented musicians, known as the Suspicious Minds Band or the TCB Band (Taking Care of Business). The group provided the musical backbone for many of Presley’s hit recordings throughout the 1960s.
“Sing You Children” lacked the chart-topping success of Presley’s earlier rock and roll anthems. However, it resonated with fans who appreciated the singer’s versatility and willingness to explore different musical styles. The song’s gentle plea for harmony took on a deeper meaning in the midst of the social and cultural upheaval of the 1960s.
The lyrics, written by Gerald Nelson and Fred Burch, encourage young people to raise their voices in song, a metaphor for promoting understanding and togetherness. The message is particularly relevant given the backdrop of the film Easy Come, Easy Go. The movie tells the story of a cynical race car driver who finds redemption through love. “Sing You Children” could be seen as an extension of that theme, suggesting that positive change can begin with the collective voices of youth.
Though not one of Presley’s biggest hits, “Sing You Children” endures as a testament to the singer’s broader musical range and his capacity to deliver a heartfelt message. The song’s simple yet powerful lyrics continue to resonate with listeners seeking solace and inspiration in a sometimes-divided world.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Sing You Children”
Oh Jonah he was desperate in the belly of the whale
Well Jonah had a plan, he knew he couldn’t failHe raised his head on high
And looking for the sky
And he sang his song so pretty
The whale told him goodbye
You got to sing you children sing
Sing you children sing
I only know one thing, hey! hey! hey!
Sing you children sing, everybody
Sing you children sing
Sing your troubles awayWell Moses said good Lord
Open up these waters for me
So I can get your children
Across the salty sea
Well the Lord parted the waters
And singing hand in hand
Moses and the children
Walked over to the promised land
You got to sing you children sing
Sing you children sing
I only know one thing, hey! hey! hey!
Sing you children sing, everybody
Sing you children sing
Sing your troubles awayOh Joshua had a plan
At the walls of Jericho
He’d march around those walls
And on his horn he’d blow
That horn would play a tune
And sing a happy song
When Joshua got through
Those walls came tumbling down
You got to sing you children sing
Sing you children sing
I only know one thing, hey! hey! hey!
Sing you children sing, everybody
Sing you children sing
Sing your troubles away
You got to sing your troubles away
Sing your troubles away
Sing your troubles away
Sing your troubles away
Sing your troubles away