Viva Las Vegas – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Viva Las Vegas,” recorded by Elvis Presley in 1963 and released in 1964, is one of the most iconic songs tied to Las Vegas and remains synonymous with the city’s lively culture. Written by the songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the song was crafted specifically for the film Viva Las Vegas, in which Presley starred alongside Ann-Margret. This upbeat, rock-infused track captures the thrill and allure of Las Vegas, with lyrics that celebrate the city’s energy, from gambling to neon lights and endless entertainment.

The film, which was one of Presley’s most commercially successful, elevated the song’s popularity, though it wasn’t immediately a chart-topping hit. Instead of releasing a full soundtrack album, Presley’s management opted to release an extended play (EP) for the film, which limited the initial reach of “Viva Las Vegas.” Despite this, the song grew in popularity over the years, solidifying its place in Presley’s discography and receiving a gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in 1992 for over 500,000 units sold in the U.S.

Though Presley never performed “Viva Las Vegas” live, it has been covered by numerous artists, underscoring its lasting appeal as a classic tribute to the excitement of Las Vegas. The song has also been widely used in media, further establishing its cultural significance. Today, “Viva Las Vegas” stands as a vibrant testament to both Elvis Presley’s legacy and Las Vegas’ spirited reputation.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Viva Las Vegas”