Introduction to “Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll,” solidified his status as a cultural icon with his vibrant and energetic performance in the 1964 musical film, Viva Las Vegas. The film, a romantic comedy set against the backdrop of the glitzy Las Vegas Strip, featured several memorable songs, including the titular track, “Viva Las Vegas”.
Background
Released as a single in 1964, “Viva Las Vegas” quickly became a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s infectious melody, catchy lyrics, and Presley’s energetic delivery made it an instant classic. It remains one of his most recognizable and beloved songs, often associated with the excitement and glamour of Las Vegas.
The song’s upbeat tempo and driving rhythm create a sense of exhilaration and anticipation. The lyrics, filled with references to gambling, nightlife, and the allure of the city, capture the spirit of Las Vegas. Presley’s vocals are full of energy and passion, perfectly complementing the lively atmosphere of the song.
The song’s arrangement features a prominent brass section, which adds to the overall exuberance of the music. The guitar riff, played by Scotty Moore, is another memorable element of the song, providing a driving force throughout the arrangement.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Bright light city gonna set my soulGonna set my soul on fireGot a whole lot of money that’s ready to burnSo get those stakes up higherThere’s a thousand pretty women waitin’ out thereAnd they’re all livin’ devil may careAnd I’m just the devil with love to spareSo Viva Las Vegas, Viva Las VegasHow I wish that there were moreThan the 24 hours in the dayAnd even if there were 40 moreI wouldn’t sleep a minute awayOh, there’s black jack, and poker, and the roulette wheelA fortune won and lost on every dealAll you need’s a strong heart and a nerve of steelViva Las Vegas, Viva Las VegasViva Las Vegas with your neon flashin’And your one arm bandits crashin’All those hopes down the drainViva Las Vegas turnin’ day into nighttimeAnd turnin’ night into daytimeIf you see it once, you’ll never be the same againI’m gonna keep on the run, I’m gonna have me some funIf it costs me my very last dimeIf I wind up broke up wellI’ll always remember that I had a swingin’ timeI’m gonna give it everything I’ve gotLady luck, please, let the dice stay hotAnd let me shoot a seven with every shotViva Las Vegas, Viva Las VegasViva Las Vega, Viva, Viva Las Vegas