Young Dreams – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Young Dreams” is a song performed by Elvis Presley for the 1958 film King Creole. Written by Martin Kalmanoff and Aaron Schroeder, it embodies a youthful optimism reflective of the film’s themes. Recorded on January 23, 1958, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, the track showcases a blend of rock and roll with pop sensibilities, characteristic of Elvis’s musical style during this era. The session featured contributions from renowned musicians, including Scotty Moore on guitar, D.J. Fontana on drums, and The Jordanaires providing backing vocals, ensuring a polished and lively sound.

In King Creole, Elvis plays Danny Fisher, a troubled young man navigating the challenges of life in New Orleans. “Young Dreams” aligns with the movie’s exploration of youthful ambition and romantic longing, adding emotional depth to the narrative. The film itself, directed by Michael Curtiz, is considered one of Elvis’s strongest cinematic efforts and allowed him to demonstrate his acting talent alongside his musical prowess.

The song appeared on the movie’s official soundtrack, which was released in 1958 and remains one of Elvis’s most celebrated albums. The soundtrack reached significant commercial success, further cementing Elvis’s status as a cultural icon during the late 1950s.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Young Dreams”
(from “King Creole” soundtrack)