Elvis Presley’s song “Song of the Shrimp” is a quirky and unique tune that showcases a different side of the King of Rock and Roll.
Released in 1962 as part of the soundtrack for the film *Girls! Girls! Girls!*, this light-hearted track tells the whimsical story of a shrimp’s journey from the sea to the fishing boats.
>>> Scroll down for the video <<<
About the song
“Song of the Shrimp” features a playful, calypso-inspired melody that matches the whimsical nature of the lyrics.
The song describes the shrimp’s plight as it moves from its peaceful life in the ocean to the dangers of being caught and cooked by fishermen.
Elvis delivers the lyrics in a carefree, storytelling style, making the song both fun and memorable.
The arrangement includes a blend of island-influenced rhythms, with gentle percussion and breezy guitars that give it a tropical feel, fitting the coastal setting of the film *Girls! Girls! Girls!*.
While it’s not a traditional love ballad or rock anthem like many of Elvis’s hits, “Song of the Shrimp” is a testament to his versatility as an artist, showing that he could bring charm and personality to any style of music.
The song’s playful narrative and catchy melody make it stand out as a lighthearted addition to the *Girls! Girls! Girls!* soundtrack, which also featured more serious tracks like “Return to Sender.”
Although “Song of the Shrimp” didn’t achieve the commercial success of some of Elvis’s other hits, it has earned a special place in his discography as a fun, offbeat track that fans enjoy for its novelty.
The song’s imaginative lyrics, combined with Elvis’s relaxed, entertaining delivery, make it a charming, if unusual, part of his musical legacy.
“Song of the Shrimp” remains a delightful, unexpected gem from Elvis’s extensive catalog, showcasing his ability to bring humor and storytelling into his music.
Video
Lyrics
“Song Of The Shrimp”
(from “Girls! Girls! Girls!” soundtrack)
I saw three shrimp in the water, two were old and gray
I swam a little bit closer and .. I heard the third one say
Goodbye mama shrimp, papa shake my hand
Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’
Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’
He showed his mama and papa, the shrimp newspaper he read
An invitation to all the shrimp and this is what it said
Free ride, New Orleans, stay in grand hotel
Big Creole gal who help you come out of your shell
Big Creole gal who help you come out of your shell
If I should live to be ninety, I will never forget
The little shrimp and the song he sang as he jumped into the net
Goodbye mama shrimp, papa shake my hand
Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’
Here come the shrimper for to take me to Louisian’
