Introduction
Lawdy Miss Clawdy: A New Orleans Rhythm & Blues Gem Polished by the King
“Lawdy Miss Clawdy,” a rockin’ rhythm & blues number, takes us back to the early days of the genre. While many might associate the song with Elvis Presley, it actually has a rich history before it landed in the King’s repertoire.
The song’s origin story leads us to New Orleans in 1952. A young singer-songwriter named Lloyd Price, known for his powerful vocals and innovative songwriting, penned “Lawdy Miss Clawdy.” Backed by the legendary Fats Domino on piano and Dave Bartholomew producing, Price recorded the song during his first session for Specialty Records. This session marked the “grand introduction of The New Orleans Sound,” a sound characterized by its infectious groove and prominent piano.
“Lawdy Miss Clawdy” wasn’t just a hit, it was a smash. The song topped Billboard’s rhythm & blues chart for a solid seven weeks in the summer of 1952, selling nearly a million copies according to Art Rupe, the founder of Specialty Records. Notably, while the song achieved massive success within the R&B market, it didn’t crack the Billboard pop charts at the time. Regardless, record distributors reported strong sales outside the traditional R&B audience, hinting at the song’s universal appeal. “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” cemented its place as a top record of the 1950s, leaving a lasting mark on the evolution of rhythm & blues.
Four years later, the song caught the attention of a young Elvis Presley. Fresh off a string of hits and known for his ability to breathe new life into existing songs, Presley recorded his version of “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” in 1956 at RCA’s New York City studios. Elvis’ rendition stayed true to the song’s energetic spirit, showcasing his signature vocals and charismatic delivery. However, unlike the original’s chart-topping success, Elvis’ version didn’t find its way onto the pop charts.
Despite not being a chart-topper for Presley, “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” remained a staple in his live performances. Notably, Elvis revisited the song for his iconic 1968 Comeback Special, delivering a raw and powerful performance that reignited interest in the song. He continued to incorporate it into his live sets throughout the 1970s, solidifying its place in his extensive catalog.
Whether you’re a fan of Elvis Presley or a lover of classic rhythm & blues, “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” offers a glimpse into the dynamic energy of the genre. From Lloyd Price’s groundbreaking recording to Elvis’ electrifying renditions, the song serves as a testament to the enduring power of music that transcends boundaries and continues to captivate audiences across generations.