About the song
“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” as interpreted by Elvis Presley is a vibrant and somewhat surprising addition to his extensive repertoire, showcasing his enduring ability to embrace contemporary sounds and infuse them with his unique charisma. While the song is famously associated with the British rock band Queen, who released it in 1979, Elvis Presley recorded his own energetic rendition shortly before his passing in 1977. This version offers a fascinating glimpse into how Presley might have continued to evolve musically in the changing landscape of popular music. It’s more than just a cover song; it’s a spirited and enthusiastic take on a rockabilly-infused rock track, delivered with the King’s unmistakable vocal flair.
The song itself is a high-energy homage to the early days of rock and roll, with a distinct rockabilly flavor. The lyrics are a straightforward and joyful celebration of the exhilarating and often unpredictable nature of being in love – that “crazy little thing called love.” Presley’s vocal delivery, while retaining his signature baritone warmth, takes on a more playful and energetic edge in this rendition. He embraces the rockabilly style with gusto, delivering the lyrics with a sense of fun and infectious enthusiasm. While perhaps not the deep balladry he was also known for, this performance highlights his versatility and his continued passion for music.
Elvis Presley’s vocal style in his interpretation of “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” demonstrates his adaptability and his inherent musicality. He effortlessly channels the rockabilly spirit of the song, incorporating his characteristic vocal inflections and a lively energy that belies his later years. The instrumentation in Presley’s version, while likely staying true to the rock and roll roots of the original, benefits from the seasoned musicianship that typically accompanied him. Expect a driving rhythm section, prominent electric guitars, and perhaps some honky-tonk piano, all contributing to the song’s energetic and danceable feel. The production aims to capture the raw excitement of a live performance, reflecting the spontaneous nature of rock and roll.
The inclusion of “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” in Elvis Presley’s final recordings offers a unique perspective on his artistic trajectory. It suggests a continued openness to new sounds and a desire to connect with a contemporary audience while still paying homage to the music that influenced his early career. While Queen’s version is definitive for many, Presley’s rendition provides a fascinating “what if” scenario, hinting at the musical directions he might have explored had he lived longer.
“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” as performed by Elvis Presley is a spirited and enjoyable take on a rock classic, showcasing his enduring energy and his ability to embrace different musical styles. It serves as a reminder of his lasting impact on popular music and offers a glimpse into his potential future musical explorations. While perhaps a departure from his more familiar ballads, it’s a testament to his vitality and his lifelong love of performing.
Video
Lyrics
This thing called love
I just can’t handle it
This thing called love
I must get ’round to it
I ain’t ready
Crazy little thing called loveThis thing (this thing) called love (called love)
It cries (like a baby) in a cradle all night
It swings (ooh, ooh), it jives (ooh, ooh)
It shakes all over like a jelly-fish
I kinda like it
Crazy little thing called loveThere goes my baby
She knows how to rock-n-roll
She drives me crazy
She gives me hot and cold fever
She leaves me in a cool, cool sweatI gotta be cool, relax, get hip
And get on my tracks
Take a back seat, hitch-hike
And take a long ride on my motorbike
Until I’m ready
Crazy little thing called loveYeah
I gotta be cool, relax, get hip
And get on my tracks
Take a back seat, hitch-hike
(Ah hum, ah hum)
And take a long ride on my motorbike
Until I’m ready (Ready Freddie)
Crazy little thing called loveThis thing called love
I just can’t handle it
This thing called love
I must get ’round to it
I ain’t ready
(Ooh ooh ooh ooh)
Crazy little thing called loveCrazy little thing called love, yeah, yeah
Crazy little thing called love, yeah, yeah
Crazy little thing called love, yeah, yeah
Crazy little thing called love, yeah, yeah
Crazy little thing called love, yeah, yeah
Crazy little thing called love, yeah, yeah
Crazy little thing called love, yeah, yeah
Crazy little thing called love, yeah, yeah
