Introduction:
Recorded in 1961, “Big Boss Man” stands as a powerful yet playful entry in the vast catalog of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. Released as a single, the song falls squarely within the genre that Elvis himself helped define: Rock and Roll.
While the exact songwriting credits can be debated, “Big Boss Man” is believed to be a collaborative effort. The music is generally attributed to Al Durand and Luther Ingram, while Presley himself is credited alongside Sid Tepper for the lyrics. There is, however, some speculation that Presley may have had a larger role in composing the music than is officially acknowledged.
Regardless of the exact writing credits, “Big Boss Man” struck a chord with audiences, becoming a Top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at number 32. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to a number of factors.
Firstly, it captures the classic Rock and Roll sound that fans adored. Presley’s powerful vocals are on full display, backed by a driving beat and a searing guitar solo. The musical arrangement perfectly complements the lyrical theme of the song.
Lyrically, “Big Boss Man” tells the story of a down-trodden employee who is yearning for better treatment from his overbearing supervisor, the titular Big Boss Man. The lyrics paint a picture of a demanding and unreasonable boss who pushes his workers to the limit. Presley delivers these lyrics with a touch of humor, but there’s also a clear undercurrent of frustration and longing for fairness.
The song resonated with many listeners who could identify with the feeling of being overworked and underappreciated. “Big Boss Man” became an anthem for those who felt they were being taken advantage of by their superiors.
Beyond its social commentary, “Big Boss Man” is simply a fun and energetic song. It’s a prime example of Presley’s ability to blend musical innovation with relatable themes. This winning combination helped propel “Big Boss Man” to become a hit and solidify its place as a gem within the vast Presley catalog.
Video:
Lyrics:
Big boss man, can’t you hear me when I call?Big boss man, can’t you hear me when I call?Can’t you hear me when I call?Well you ain’t so big, you know you’re just tall that’s all, All rightWell you got me workin’ boss manWorkin’ round the clockI want to little drink of waterBut you won’t let big Al stopBig boss man now can’t you hear me when I call? All rightI said you ain’t so big, you know you’re just tall that’s allBig boss man, why can’t you hear me when I call? All rightYou know you ain’t so big, I said you’re just tall that’s all, All rightI’m gonna get me a boss manOne who’s gonna treat me rightI work hard in the day timeRest easy at nightBig boss man, can’t you hear me when I call?Can’t you hear me when I call?I said you ain’t so big, you’re just tall that’s allI’m gonna get me a boss manOne that’s gonna treat me rightI work hard in the evenin’Rest easy at nightBig boss man, big boss man, can’t you hear me when I call?I said you ain’t so big, you’re just tall that’s allAll right, big boss manBig boss man