Introduction:
Hard Knocks, a dynamic rock and roll song, was released in 1964 by the iconic singer Elvis Presley. While not reaching the chart-topping heights of some of his other releases, the song served as the energetic B-side to the ballad “It’s a Wonderful World” for the soundtrack of the movie “Roustabout”.
Although not credited on the record, Scotty Moore on lead guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums, Presley’s legendary bandmates from his Sun Studio days, likely provided the backing music for Hard Knocks. The song was produced by Samuel Shug Foote, who worked on many of Presley’s film soundtracks throughout the 1960s.
Hard Knocks showcases a mature Elvis. Presley’s vocals are powerful and assured, delivering the lyrics with a confident swagger. The instrumentation is equally energetic, featuring a driving backbeat and soaring guitar licks characteristic of early rock and roll. While some of Presley’s film soundtracks leaned heavily towards pop ballads, Hard Knocks demonstrates that the King of Rock and Roll hadn’t lost his ability to deliver a high-octane rock song.
Despite not being a major commercial success, Hard Knocks remains a fan favorite among Presley enthusiasts. The song is a welcome reminder of Presley’s roots in rock and roll and his undeniable charisma as a performer. It stands as a solid example of the electrifying energy he brought to both his early recordings and later film soundtracks. Today, the song can be found on various Presley compilation albums and collections, ensuring that Hard Knocks continues to be enjoyed by new generations of fans.
Video:
Lyrics:
Some kids born with a silver spoonI guess that I was born a little too soonHard knocks, all I ever knew was hard knocksAnd I’m telling you, I said you’d better beware‘Cause I’ve had my shareSome kids born as rich as a kingBut I was born without a doggone thingHard knocks, all I ever knew was hard knocksAnd I’m telling you, I said you’d better beware‘Cause I’ve had my shareI walked a million miles I betTired and hungry and cold and wetI’ve heard that lonesome whistle blowFrom New York City down to MexicoSome kids born fancy freeNobody never gave nothing to me butHard knocks, all I ever knew was hard knocksAnd I’m telling you, I said you’d better beware‘Cause I’ve had my shareI walked a million miles I betTired and hungry and cold and wetI’ve heard that lonesome whistle blowFrom New York City down to MexicoSome kids born fancy freeNobody never gave nothing to me butHard knocks, all I ever knew was hard knocksAnd I’m telling you, I said you’d better beware‘Cause I’ve had my shareI said you’d better beware‘Cause I’ve had my shareI said you’d better beware‘Cause I’ve had my share of hard knocks