Introduction
What’d I Say: The King’s Unlikely Anthem
Elvis Presley’s “What’d I Say” may be a rock and roll anthem, but its origins lie in the soulful sounds of rhythm and blues. Written by Ray Charles, the song emerged in a 1959 performance where Charles, frustrated by a malfunctioning recording equipment, began improvising lyrics and a call-and-response with his band, The Raelettes. The infectious energy captivated the audience, and Charles, recognizing a hit, later refined the song for a proper recording.
However, “What’d I Say” faced resistance from radio stations due to its suggestive lyrics and gospel-infused shouts. Undeterred, Charles released the song himself and it became a surprise R&B hit.
Elvis Presley, a fan of Charles, stumbled upon the song during a recording session in 1964. Intrigued by its raw energy, he laid down his own version, infusing it with his signature rock and roll swagger. Presley’s rendition, while tamer lyrically, captured the song’s infectious spirit and propelled it to mainstream audiences. “What’d I Say” became a surprise hit for Presley, topping the Billboard charts and solidifying his status as the King of Rock and Roll.
Despite its playful nature, “What’d I Say” holds historical significance. It blurred the lines between R&B and rock and roll, paving the way for a more integrated sound in popular music. Elvis’ energetic performance of the song on “The Ed Sullivan Show” is considered a pivotal moment in music history, bringing the energy of rock and roll to a national audience. So, while the song may have started as a playful improvisation, “What’d I Say” became a cultural phenomenon, forever linked to the rise of rock and roll and the enduring legacy of the King.