Introduction:
“Hard Headed Woman,” performed by Elvis Presley, is a quintessential rock and roll track from the 1950s. Released on June 10, 1958, as part of the King Creole movie soundtrack, the song was written by Claude Demetrius. Its infectious energy and dynamic rhythm made it an instant hit, helping to solidify Elvis’s status as the “King of Rock and Roll.” The track features an electrifying blend of rockabilly and blues elements, reflecting the emerging style of the era.
The song’s lyrics humorously recount how history has seen men struggle with strong-willed women, citing characters like Adam and Eve, Samson and Delilah, and Jezebel. With its catchy melody and bold lyrics, “Hard Headed Woman” resonated with audiences, becoming the first rock and roll song to earn a Gold Record certification from the RIAA.
Musically, the track showcases Elvis’s powerful vocals and the backing of top-tier session musicians, including Scotty Moore on guitar and D.J. Fontana on drums. Its release as both a single and a part of the King Creole album contributed to its widespread acclaim.
Commercially, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking another milestone in Elvis’s career. Its success exemplifies his ability to blend storytelling with raw musical energy, influencing the rock and roll genre for years to come.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Hard Headed Woman”
a soft hearted man
been the cause of trouble
ever since the world began.
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been
a thorn in the side of man.Now Adam told to Eve,
“Listen here to me,
don’t you let me catch you
messin’ round that apple tree.”
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been
a thorn in the side of man.
Now Samson told Delilah
loud and clear,
“Keep your cotton pickin’ fingers
out my curly hair.”
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been
a thorn in the side of man.
I heard about a king
who was doin’ swell
till he started playing
with that evil Jezebel.
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been a thorn in the side of man.
I got a woman,
a head like a rock.
If she ever went away
I’d cry around the clock.
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been
a thorn in the side of man.