Introduction
Elvis Presley’s “Little Egypt”: A Borrowed Tune with a King’s Touch
Elvis Presley’s “Little Egypt” might not be one of his most iconic recordings, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of his sound and the collaborative nature of rock and roll in the early 1960s.
The song itself wasn’t originally an Elvis Presley tune. “Little Egypt (Ying-Yang)” was written and recorded by the R&B group The Coasters in 1961, reaching the Top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was a playful, energetic rock and roll number with suggestive lyrics about a burlesque dancer.
Elvis, ever the trendsetter, took notice of the song’s catchy beat and incorporated it into his repertoire three years later. However, his version wasn’t a straight-up cover. In keeping with the approach of many artists in the early days of rock and roll, Elvis and his team reworked the song to fit his signature style.
Elvis’ “Little Egypt” appeared in two incarnations. The first came in 1964 for the movie “Roustabout.” This version featured a more prominent rockabilly influence, with a driving beat and Elvis’ characteristic playful vocals. The lyrics were toned down slightly to suit the film’s audience.
The song received another treatment in 1968 for Elvis’ legendary “Comeback Special.” This rendition leaned more towards soul and blues, showcasing Elvis’ powerful vocals and the tight grooves of his band. It offered a more mature take on the playful original, reflecting Elvis’ own artistic development.
While “Little Egypt” wasn’t a chart-topping hit for Elvis, it serves as a reminder of his ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles. It’s a testament to the collaborative spirit of the early rock and roll scene, where artists borrowed and reinterpreted each other’s work, creating a genre that was constantly evolving. So, prepare to hear a familiar song given the “Elvis treatment,” a rock and roll journey with a touch of the King’s magic.