Introduction:
In 1962, a year that witnessed the dawning of a new musical era with the rise of The Beatles, a different kind of king held court on the American music scene. Elvis Presley, already a rock and roll icon with a string of chart-topping hits and a passionate fanbase, further solidified his reign with the release of “King of the Whole Wide World”. This energetic ballad, featured in the boxing film Kid Galahad, showcased not just Presley’s undeniable charisma but also his versatility as a vocalist.
Composed by songwriting duo Bob Roberts and Ruth Batchelor, “King of the Whole Wide World” deviated from the high-octane rock and roll that initially catapulted Presley to stardom. Instead, it embraced a more introspective tone, reflecting on themes of ambition, self-belief, and the yearning for success. The song opens with a gentle piano melody, setting the stage for Presley’s smooth vocals. As the song progresses, a subtle build-up in instrumentation adds emphasis to his powerful delivery, culminating in a soaring chorus that perfectly captures the essence of the title.
While not achieving the same chart dominance as some of Presley’s earlier hits, “King of the Whole Wide World” peaked at number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, its significance lies beyond mere chart numbers. The song served as a testament to Presley’s ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving musical landscape. Released alongside the film, “King of the Whole Wide World” became a recognizable part of the Kid Galahad soundtrack, further solidifying the connection between Presley’s music and his burgeoning film career.
Furthermore, the song resonated deeply with his devoted fanbase. The lyrics, which speak of overcoming obstacles and achieving one’s dreams, mirrored the meteoric rise of Presley himself. Fans saw themselves reflected in the protagonist’s unwavering determination, forging a powerful connection that transcended the music itself.
Although not as widely known as some of Presley’s other iconic recordings, “King of the Whole Wide World” remains a cherished gem within his vast discography. It serves as a captivating snapshot of a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his artistic growth and enduring influence on the world of music.
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Lyrics:
A poor man wants the oysterA rich man wants the pearlBut the man who can sing when he hasn’t got a thingHe’s the king of the whole wide worldCome on let’s sing, sing brother sing‘Cos the man who can sing when he hasn’t got a thingHe’s the king of the whole wide worldThe rich man wants the princessThe poor man just wants a girlBut the man who can sing when he hasn’t got a thingHe’s the king of the whole wide worldCome on let’s sing, sing brother sing‘Cos the man who can sing when he hasn’t got a thingHe’s the king of the whole wide worldA poor man wants to be a rich manA rich man wants to be a kingBut the man who can sing when he hasn’t got a thingHe’s the king of the whole wide worldCome on let’s sing, sing brother sing‘Cos the man who can sing when he hasn’t got a thingHe’s the king of the whole wide worldCome on let’s sing, sing brother sing‘Cos the man who can sing when he hasn’t got a thingHe’s the king of the whole wide worldOf the whole wide worldOf the whole wide world