Introduction
Lawdy Miss Clawdy: The King Pays Tribute to a Rhythm & Blues Gem
Elvis Presley’s “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” isn’t one of his most well-known songs, but it holds a special place in his musical journey. Released in 1956, the song serves as a tribute to a groundbreaking rhythm & blues hit and showcases Elvis’s early influences and his electrifying stage presence.
The original “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” belonged to R&B pioneer Lloyd Price. Released in 1952, the song became a massive hit, topping the Billboard R&B chart for seven weeks. The song’s infectious energy and playful lyrics, describing a frustrating yet irresistible woman, captured the hearts of audiences.
Elvis, a young singer heavily influenced by the burgeoning rock and roll scene, was undoubtedly familiar with Price’s work. In 1956, during his second recording session for RCA in New York City, Elvis decided to record his own version of “Lawdy Miss Clawdy.” Backed by his soon-to-be-iconic bandmates Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums, Elvis delivered a high-octane performance.
Elvis’s version stays true to the spirit of the original. The driving piano, courtesy of Shorty Long, lays the foundation for the song’s infectious energy. Elvis’s vocals, brimming with youthful enthusiasm, capture the frustration and attraction of the song’s protagonist. While Elvis doesn’t quite match Lloyd Price’s raw intensity, his rendition injects a dose of rock and roll swagger, reflecting the changing tide of American music.
“Lawdy Miss Clawdy” wasn’t a major commercial success for Elvis. It wasn’t released as a single and didn’t appear on any of his studio albums at the time. However, the song became a staple of his early live shows. Elvis’s energetic delivery and the song’s infectious groove ignited audiences, showcasing his ability to transform a rhythm & blues classic into a rock and roll raver.
The song’s legacy lies in its connection to Elvis’s roots. “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” serves as a reminder of the rhythm & blues and gospel influences that shaped his sound. It’s a testament to his early appreciation for other artists and his ability to infuse their music with his own rock and roll spirit.
So, crank up the volume and prepare to be energized. “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” is a rock and roll reimagining of an R&B gem, a powerful reminder of Elvis Presley’s early influences and his electrifying stage presence.