Elvis Presley was one of the most iconic musicians of all time, and his songs continue to be popular to this day. One of his most famous songs is “I’m All Shook Up”, released in 1957. This song has a catchy melody and memorable lyrics, but what is the meaning behind it?
The Lyrics of “I’m All Shook Up”
The first thing that stands out about this song is its lyrics. Here are the first few lines:
“A well’a bless my soul
What’sa wrong with me?
I’m itching like a man in a fuzzy tree
My friends say I’m actin’ wild as a bug”
These lyrics paint a picture of someone who is feeling out of control and strange. The chorus repeats the phrase “I’m all shook up” several times, emphasizing the feeling of being beyond one’s own understanding.
The Inspiration for “I’m All Shook Up”
Elvis Presley did not write “I’m All Shook Up” himself; it was written by Otis Blackwell and Elvis just added his own personal flair to the song. However, the inspiration for the song likely came from a variety of sources.
One theory is that the song is about a romantic encounter. The “shook up” feeling could refer to the butterflies in one’s stomach that come with a crush or infatuation. Other theories suggest that the song could be about drug use or the general hysteria surrounding Elvis himself.
The Success of “I’m All Shook Up”
Regardless of its origins, “I’m All Shook Up” was a massive success. It spent eight weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became Elvis’s second biggest hit of all time (behind “Hound Dog”).
The song also had a lasting impact on popular culture. It has been covered by over 20 different artists, including Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, and Jeff Beck. “I’m All Shook Up” has also been featured in several movies and television shows, cementing its place as an enduring classic.
The Legacy of Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley passed away in 1977, but his music and impact continue to be felt today. He was a cultural icon who revolutionized the music industry and popularized rock and roll. “I’m All Shook Up” is just one of the many songs that helped to shape his legacy.
If you’re a fan of Elvis Presley or just enjoy catchy, upbeat songs, “I’m All Shook Up” is definitely worth a listen. It’s a classic that has stood the test of time and continues to be loved by people of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who wrote “I’m All Shook Up”?
The song was written by Otis Blackwell, but it was famously performed by Elvis Presley.
2. What inspired the lyrics of “I’m All Shook Up”?
There are a few different theories, but some believe that the song is about a romantic encounter or drug use.
3. What is the legacy of Elvis Presley?
Elvis remains one of the most iconic musicians of all time and helped to popularize rock and roll. His music continues to be beloved by fans all over the world.
4. How long did “I’m All Shook Up” stay at number one on the charts?
The song spent eight weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
5. Who else has covered “I’m All Shook Up”?
The song has been covered by over 20 different artists, including Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, and Jeff Beck.
6. What impact did “I’m All Shook Up” have on popular culture?
The song became a massive success and has been featured in several movies and television shows. It also helped to solidify Elvis’s legacy as an enduring musical icon.
7. What other famous songs did Elvis Presley record?
Elvis recorded many popular songs throughout his career, including “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”
8. How did Elvis Presley change the music industry?
Elvis popularized rock and roll and helped to pave the way for countless other musicians. He also challenged social norms and brought new energy and vibrancy to the music scene.
9. What is the significance of Elvis Presley’s iconic style?
Elvis’s style, which included form-fitting suits and slicked-back hair, became a signature look that would influence generations to come.
10. Why is Elvis Presley such a beloved musical icon?
Elvis’s music had a unique energy and emotion that resonated with people all over the world. His legacy also extends beyond his music, as he challenged social norms and helped to shape popular culture.
11. How did Elvis get his start in the music industry?
Elvis began recording music in 1953 and gained popularity through his live performances and appearances on television shows.
12. What was Elvis Presley’s last concert?
Elvis’s last concert was on June 26, 1977, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He passed away just a few weeks later on August 16, 1977.
Lyric
A well I bless my soul
What's wrong with me?
I'm itching like a man on a fuzzy tree
My friends say I'm actin' wild as a bug
I'm in love
I'm all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
My hands are shaky and my knees are weak
I can't seem to stand on my own two feet
Who do you thank when you have such luck?
I'm in love
I'm all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
Please don't ask me what's on my mind
I'm a little mixed up, but I'm feelin' fine
When I'm near that girl that I love best
My heart beats so it scares me to death!
She touched my hand what a chill I got
Her lips are like a vulcano that's hot
I'm proud to say she's my buttercup
I'm in love
I'm all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
My tongue get tied when I try to speak
My insides shake like a leaf on a tree
There's only one cure for this body of mine
That's to have the girl that I love so fine!