Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” marked an exciting addition to his live performances and recordings. Originally recorded by Big Maybelle in 1955 and popularized by Jerry Lee Lewis in 1957, the song became a rock ‘n’ roll staple, celebrated for its lively rhythm and energetic piano-driven style. Elvis included “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” in his live setlists during the 1970s, and he recorded his own version on September 22, 1970, as part of his Elvis Country (I’m 10,000 Years Old) album sessions. However, it wasn’t released as part of that album but later appeared on compilation albums, such as Walk a Mile in My Shoes: The Essential ’70s Masters.
Elvis’s approach to the song emphasized a smoother yet equally dynamic style, bringing his signature vocal charisma and passion to a track known for its boisterous energy. The song was included in his iconic Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite concert in 1973, a groundbreaking event that was broadcast live globally and is often cited as one of the peak moments of Elvis’s career. The concert allowed him to showcase his rock ‘n’ roll roots to a worldwide audience, performing classics like “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” alongside other hits.
Presley’s live performances of the song showed his ability to blend rock, blues, and country influences, embodying the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll with his enthusiastic renditions. The song remained a testament to Elvis’s versatility and love for the rockabilly and blues styles that influenced his early career, making it a cherished part of his live performances during his Las Vegas residency and other concerts throughout the 1970s.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On”
a-whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Yeah I said come on over baby,
a-whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Well we ain’t fakin’,
a-whole lotta shakin’ goin’ onMmm, I said come on over baby,
we got chicken in the barn
Whose barn, what barn, my barn
Come on over baby,
we got the bull by the horns
Yeah, we ain’t fakin’,
a-whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Well, I said shake baby, shake
I said shake, baby shake now
I said shake it baby, shake it
I said shake it baby, shake
We ain’t fakin’,
a-whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Well, I said come on over baby,
a-whole lot-ta shakin’ goin’ on
I said come on over baby,
a-whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Well we ain’t fakin’,
a-whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Well my mom-mom-mom,
I said shake it baby, shake it
I said shake it baby, shake it
I said shake it baby, shake all right
I said shake it baby, shake it
We ain’t fakin’,
a-whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on