Introduction to “Crawfish” by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll,” is a name synonymous with American music. His iconic voice, magnetic stage presence, and innovative blend of genres have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
Throughout his illustrious career, Presley released a vast array of songs that showcased his versatility and artistic evolution. Among these timeless tracks, “Crawfish” stands out as a fascinating and often overlooked gem.
Background
Released in 1960 as part of the soundtrack to the film Flaming Star, “Crawfish” is a country and western ballad that showcases Presley’s softer side. The song’s title, while seemingly simple, carries symbolic significance.
The crawfish, a creature often associated with the American South, can be seen as a metaphor for resilience and survival in the face of adversity. This theme resonates with the song’s lyrical content, which explores themes of longing, loss, and the passage of time.
The song’s arrangement is characterized by its simplicity and elegance. Acoustic guitar provides the foundation, while Presley’s vocals are delivered with a heartfelt sincerity. The instrumentation is sparse, allowing the singer’s emotional delivery to take center stage.
The production values are characteristic of the era, with a warm, analog sound that adds to the song’s timeless appeal.
Lyrically, “Crawfish” paints a vivid picture of a man grappling with the loss of a loved one. The protagonist reflects on the beauty of their shared experiences, while also acknowledging the pain of their separation.
The song’s refrain, “Crawfish, I’m coming home,” serves as a poignant expression of longing and hope. The use of the crawfish metaphor adds a layer of symbolism to the lyrics, suggesting that the protagonist is searching for a way to reconnect with their past and find solace in familiar surroundings.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
[Verse 1]
Crawfish (Crawfish)
Well, I went to the bayou just last night
There was no moon, but the stars were bright
Put a big long hook on a big long pole
And I pulled Mr. Crawfish out of his hole[Chorus]
Crawfish (Crawfish)
See, I got him, see the size
Stripped and cleaned before your eyes
Sweet meat, look
Fresh and ready to be cook[Verse 2]
Crawfish (Crawfish)
Now take Mr. Crawfish in your hand
He’s gonna look good in your frying pan
If you fry him crisp, or you boil him right
He’ll be sweeter than sugar when you take a bite[Chorus]
Crawfish (Crawfish)
See I got him, see the size
Stripped and cleaned before your eyes
Sweet meat, look
Fresh and ready to be cook
Crawfish (Crawfish)