About The Song
(Watch the video below)
Released in 1969 as part of the soundtrack for the film "The Trouble with Girls," "Clean Up Your Own Backyard" is a compelling song that transcends the boundaries of entertainment. Elvis Presley, known for his charismatic performances and chart-topping hits, uses this track to deliver a powerful message that resonates with themes of personal responsibility and social awareness.
"Clean Up Your Own Backyard" stands out in Presley's repertoire due to its substantive lyrics and social commentary. The song paints a vivid picture of societal issues, urging listeners to take a closer look at their own lives before passing judgment on others. The metaphor of cleaning up one's own backyard before criticizing the neighbors becomes a powerful metaphor for self-reflection and personal accountability.
Elvis Presley's vocal delivery in "Clean Up Your Own Backyard" is soulful and impassioned. His voice, a perfect blend of strength and vulnerability, adds depth to the lyrics. Presley's ability to convey emotion through his singing is on full display, transforming the song into more than just a musical piece; it becomes a heartfelt plea for introspection and positive change.
Musically, "Clean Up Your Own Backyard" draws from blues and gospel influences, infusing the track with a rich and soulful sound. The backing vocals and the rhythmic instrumentation enhance the song's emotional resonance, creating a compelling sonic experience. Presley's willingness to experiment with different genres showcases his versatility as an artist, allowing the song to transcend traditional boundaries.
Despite being released over five decades ago, "Clean Up Your Own Backyard" remains relevant in its message. The call to address personal shortcomings and contribute positively to one's community is a timeless sentiment. The song's universality has allowed it to maintain its impact, inspiring listeners to reflect on their actions and take steps toward creating a better world.
While "Clean Up Your Own Backyard" may not be as widely recognized as some of Elvis Presley's more iconic hits, its significance lies in its lasting impact. The song's enduring message of personal responsibility continues to resonate with audiences, making it a hidden gem within Presley's extensive catalog.
In a world where social issues and personal accountability remain prevalent, "Clean Up Your Own Backyard" serves as a reminder that positive change often starts at an individual level. Elvis Presley's ability to convey a meaningful message through music underscores his status not just as an entertainer, but as an artist with a profound understanding of the human experience. As listeners revisit the King's discography, this song stands as a testament to his ability to use his platform for more than mere entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who lend their ears to his timeless melodies.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Back porch preacher preaching at me
Acting like he wrote the golden rules
Shaking his fist and speeching at me
Shouting from his soap box like a fool
Come Sunday morning he's lying in bed
With his eye all red, with the wine in his head
Wishing he was dead when he oughta be
Heading for Sunday school
Clean up your own backyard
Oh don't you hand me none of your lines
Clean up your own backyard
You tend to your business, I'll tend to mine
Drugstore cowboy criticizing
Acting like he's better than you and me
Standing on the sidewalk supervising
Telling everybody how they ought to be
Come closing time 'most every night
He locks up tight and out go the lights
And he ducks out of sight and he cheats on his wife
With his employee
Clean up your own backyard
Oh don't you hand me none of your lines
Clean up your own backyard
You tend to your business, I'll tend to mine
Armchair quarterback's always moanin'
Second guessing people all day long
Pushing, fooling and hanging on in
Always messing where they don't belong
When you get right down to the nitty-gritty
Isn't it a pity that in this big city
Not a one a'little bitty man'll admit
He could have been a little bit wrong
Clean up your own backyard
Oh don't you hand me, don't you hand me none of your lines
Clean up your own backyard
You tend to your business, I'll tend to mine
Clean up your own backyard
You tend to your business, I'll tend to mine