About The Song
(Watch the video below)
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, possessed a unique ability to infuse raw energy and emotion into his live performances, captivating audiences worldwide. Among the plethora of songs that adorned his repertoire, "Polk Salad Annie" stands out as a vivacious, foot-stomping anthem that showcases Presley's unparalleled stage presence and vocal prowess. Originally penned by Tony Joe White, the song found its true essence in Presley's electrifying rendition, becoming a staple in his live concerts and a fan favorite for generations.
At its core, "Polk Salad Annie" is a narrative-rich composition that paints a vivid picture of Southern life, delving into themes of poverty, resilience, and the allure of forbidden pleasures. Set against the backdrop of the rural South, the song narrates the tale of a rough-and-tumble woman named Annie who survives on a diet of wild greens, colloquially known as "polk salad," and dreams of escaping her humble beginnings. Through White's evocative lyrics, listeners are transported to the sweltering heat of the Mississippi Delta, where the rhythm of life pulsates to the beat of blues-infused melodies.
Presley's live rendition of "Polk Salad Annie" elevates the song to new heights, transforming it into a high-octane showcase of his musical prowess and magnetic charisma. From the moment Presley takes the stage, his commanding presence commands attention, drawing the audience into his world with a single flick of the wrist. Backed by a tight-knit band that effortlessly blends blues, rock, and country influences, Presley launches into the opening riff, sending a surge of anticipation rippling through the crowd.
As the music swells and Presley's vocals soar, "Polk Salad Annie" unfolds like a Southern saga, with each verse punctuated by electrifying guitar solos and driving rhythms. Presley's voice, rich with emotion and authenticity, breathes life into White's lyrics, infusing them with a sense of urgency and longing. With every impassioned cry of "Gator's got your granny," Presley channels the spirit of the Deep South, embodying the resilience and defiance of its inhabitants.
What sets Presley's live rendition of "Polk Salad Annie" apart is his ability to forge a deep connection with his audience, transcending the boundaries of time and space to create a shared experience that resonates with fans of all ages. Whether performing in packed arenas or intimate venues, Presley had an innate knack for making each person in the audience feel as though he was singing directly to them, weaving a tapestry of emotions that spoke to the universal human experience.
Moreover, Presley's live performances were characterized by his dynamic stage presence and unparalleled showmanship. With his trademark swagger and gyrating hips, he commanded the stage with an effortless grace that was as mesmerizing as it was electrifying. During "Polk Salad Annie," Presley would often engage in playful banter with his bandmates, further enhancing the sense of camaraderie and spontaneity that permeated his concerts.
Beyond its infectious melody and rollicking rhythm, "Polk Salad Annie" holds a deeper significance as a cultural artifact that reflects the complex tapestry of American identity. Through its portrayal of Southern life and its exploration of themes such as poverty, resilience, and the search for freedom, the song serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of the human soul.
In conclusion, Elvis Presley's live rendition of "Polk Salad Annie" stands as a testament to his unparalleled talent as a performer and his ability to transcend musical genres and captivate audiences with his magnetic charisma. With its infectious energy, evocative lyrics, and soul-stirring vocals, the song continues to resonate with fans around the world, cementing its status as a timeless classic in the annals of rock and roll history.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
If some of ya'll never been down south too much
I'm gonna tell you a little story so's you'll understand what I'm talkin' about
Down there we have a plant that grows out in the woods, and the fields
And it looks somethin' like a turnip green
Everybody calls it polk salad
Now that's polk salad
Used to know a girl lived down there and she'd go out in the evenings and
Pick her a mess of it
Carry it home and cook it for supper
Because that's about all they had to eat
But they did all right
Down in Louisiana, where the alligators grow so mean
Lived a girl, that I swear to the world
Made the alligators look tame
Polk salad Annie, gators got your granny
Everybody said it was a shame
Because her momma was a workin' on the chain gang
A mean vicious woman
Everyday before supper time, she'd go down by the truck patch
And pick her a mess of polk salad, and carry it home in a tow sack
Polk salad Annie, the gators got your granny
Everybody says it was a shame
Because her momma was a workin' on the chain gang
A wretched, spiteful, straight-razor totin' woman
Lord have Mercy, pick a mess of it
Sock a little polk salad to me
Her daddy was lazy and no-count, claimed he had a bad back
All her brothers were fit for
Was stealin' watermelons out of my truck patch
Polk salad Annie, the gators got your granny
Everybody said it was a shame
Because her momma was a workin' on the chain gang
Yeah, sock a little polk salad to me, you know I need me a mess of it
Sock a little
Sock a little polk salad to me, you know I need a real mess of it (chick-a-boom)
Sock a little polk salad, you know I need a real (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)
Ching-ching-ching-ching-a-ling (chick-a-boom)