About the song
“Baby, What You Want Me to Do” by Elvis Presley is a raw and energetic blues-infused rock and roll number that showcases his charismatic stage presence and vocal dynamism. While the song has its roots in the blues tradition, notably popularized by Jimmy Reed, Presley’s interpretation, particularly his electrifying performances during the iconic ’68 Comeback Special, transformed it into a high-octane rock and roll spectacle. It’s more than just a blues cover; it’s a powerful display of vocal prowess and a testament to his ability to electrify an audience.
The song’s lyrics, simple yet direct, express the narrator’s eagerness to please his partner, asking repeatedly, “Baby, what you want me to do?” This straightforwardness, coupled with the driving rhythm and Presley’s suggestive delivery, creates an atmosphere of playful tension and anticipation. His vocalizations, often punctuated with growls and shouts, add to the raw and uninhibited feel of the performance.
Elvis Presley’s vocal style, characterized by its dynamic range, bluesy inflections, and confident swagger, imbues the song with a sense of both raw energy and playful charm. He doesn’t just sing the lyrics; he embodies the eager and somewhat mischievous persona, conveying the passion and desire of the narrator with a captivating intensity. The raw energy of his ’68 Comeback Special performances, in particular, captured a moment of artistic resurgence and reminded audiences of his electrifying stage presence.
The song’s arrangement, typically driven by a prominent bluesy guitar riff, a strong walking bass line, and a driving drum beat, allows Presley’s vocals and the infectious rhythm to take center stage. The raw and energetic instrumentation creates a sense of excitement and anticipation, mirroring the song’s playful and sensual undertones. The bluesy harmonica often featured in live versions further enhances the song’s gritty and authentic feel.
“Baby, What You Want Me to Do” in Elvis’s hands, becomes more than just a blues song; it’s a rock and roll spectacle, a vibrant display of his raw talent and magnetic stage presence. It’s a testament to his ability to take a classic blues tune and inject it with his unique energy and charisma, captivating audiences with his dynamic performance. The ’68 Comeback Special rendition remains a highlight, showcasing his enduring power as a live performer.
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Lyrics
We’ re going up, we’ re going down
We’ re going up, down down
Any way you want let it roll
Yeah yeah yeah
You got me doing what you want me
Oh baby what you want me to doYou got me peepin’, you got me hidin’
You got me peep hide hide
Any way you want to let it roll
Yeah yeah yeah
You got me doing what you want me
Baby what do you want me to do
