introduction
“Trouble” is a blues song written by the renowned songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Elvis Presley first performed it in the 1958 film “King Creole,” where he portrayed a young singer entangled in the complexities of New Orleans’ nightlife.
The song’s lyrics introduce a defiant character who warns, “If you’re looking for trouble, you came to the right place.” This persona aligns seamlessly with the film’s narrative, reflecting the protagonist’s rebellious nature. Musically, “Trouble” draws inspiration from classic blues motifs, notably incorporating a riff reminiscent of Muddy Waters’ 1954 track “Hoochie Coochie Man,” penned by Willie Dixon. This particular riff is among the most recognizable in blues music and has been featured in other songs like Bo Diddley’s “I’m A Man” and Waters’ “Mannish Boy.”
Presley’s performance of “Trouble” in “King Creole” is notable for its raw intensity and departure from his earlier rock and roll image. The song’s brooding tone and Presley’s commanding delivery showcased his versatility as an artist capable of interpreting deeper blues material.
A decade later, “Trouble” played a pivotal role in Presley’s 1968 television special, commonly referred to as the “Comeback Special.” He opened the program with a medley of “Trouble” and “Guitar Man,” symbolizing his return to the music scene after years focused on filmmaking. This performance was characterized by moody lighting and a gritty aesthetic, reestablishing Presley’s image as a provocative and dynamic performer.
Over the years, “Trouble” has been covered by various artists, reflecting its enduring appeal. For instance, Suzi Quatro included her rendition on her 1974 album “Quatro,” and the British rock band Gillan reached number 14 on the UK Singles Chart with their version in 1980. The song’s influence extended to the stage as well, featuring in the musical revue “Smokey Joe’s Cafe,” which showcased the works of Leiber and Stoller.
In the 2022 biographical film “Elvis,” “Trouble” is performed during a dramatized depiction of Presley’s 1956 concert at Russwood Park in Memphis. Although the song had not been written at the time of the actual event, its inclusion in the film underscores its thematic resonance with Presley’s early career challenges and rebellious image.
“Trouble” remains a significant entry in Elvis Presley’s discography, illustrating his ability to embody the essence of blues music and reinforcing his status as a versatile and influential artist.
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