Introduction:
Recorded in 1957, Treat Me Nice is a energetic rock and roll song by the undisputed King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley. Though not released as a single, the song went on to become a fan favorite and a cornerstone of Presley’s live performances. It has earned its place as a rock and roll classic, inspiring and being covered by numerous artists over the years.
Treat Me Nice features the signature sound of Presley’s early rock and roll era. Presley’s vocals are powerful and charismatic, brimming with his youthful energy. He is backed by his legendary band featuring Scotty Moore on electric guitar, Bill Black on double bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums. The tight rhythm section lays down a driving beat, perfect for Presley’s signature dance moves. The song is believed to have been produced by the team of Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Studio where Presley first rose to fame, and Scotty Moore himself.
The lyrics of Treat Me Nice portray a dynamic between a young man and woman. The singer expresses his devotion and willingness to be the woman’s “slave” if she treats him well. However, he also warns that he expects respect in return, and will not tolerate being mistreated. This interplay of devotion and self-respect reflects a common theme in early rock and roll, where young men sang about both their deep affection for their partners and their own sense of independence.
Treat Me Nice was first performed live in 1957 and quickly became a staple of Presley’s concerts. The song’s energetic tempo and catchy melody ensured that it got the crowd moving, showcasing Presley’s charisma and stage presence. While it wasn’t a commercial hit upon its release, Treat Me Nice gained a dedicated following among Presley’s fans and helped solidify his reputation as a dynamic live performer.
The legacy of Treat Me Nice extends beyond Presley’s original performances. The song’s influence can be heard in the work of numerous rock and roll artists who came after Presley, particularly those who embraced a more raw and energetic sound. It remains a popular choice for cover songs, and continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. Treat Me Nice serves as a reminder of the electrifying sound that Presley brought to the world, and its place as a cornerstone of early rock and roll.
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Lyrics:
When I walk through that doorBaby, be politeYou’re gonna make me soreIf you don’t greet me rightDon’t you ever kiss me once, kiss me twiceTreat me niceI know that you’ve been toldIt’s not fair to teaseSo, if you come on coldI’m really gonna freezeIf you don’t want me to be cold as iceTreat me niceMake me feel at homeIf you really careScratch my backAnd run your pretty fingers through my hairYou know I’ll be your slaveIf you ask me toBut if you don’t behaveI’ll walk right out on youIf you want my love then take my adviceTreat me niceMake me feel at homeIf you really careScratch my back and run your prettyFingers through my hairYou know I’ll be your slaveIf you ask me toBut if you don’t behaveI’ll walk right out on youIf you want my love then take my adviceTreat me nice, treat me niceIf you really want my love then treat me nice