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Money Honey – Elvis Presley – 1956

About The Song

“Money Honey” is a classic rock and roll song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1956. Originally written and recorded by Clyde McPhatter and the Drifters, Presley’s rendition infused the song with his energetic style, contributing to its success and establishing him as a key figure in the emerging rock and roll scene.

Five facts about Elvis Presley’s version of “Money Honey”:

  1. Drifters Original: “Money Honey” was originally recorded by Clyde McPhatter and the Drifters in 1953. Elvis Presley’s version was released in 1956 as part of his debut studio album, “Elvis Presley,” marking one of the early instances where he covered and adapted songs to suit his style.
  2. Sun Records Recording: Presley recorded his version of “Money Honey” during his sessions at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. These recordings, done with guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black, contributed significantly to the development of Presley’s distinctive sound.
  3. Energetic Rockabilly: Elvis’s rendition of “Money Honey” is characterized by its lively and energetic rockabilly arrangement. The song features Presley’s dynamic vocals and showcases the fusion of rhythm and blues, country, and gospel influences that defined the early rock and roll era.
  4. Commercial Success: While not released as a single, “Money Honey” was well-received and contributed to the commercial success of Elvis’s debut album. The song’s popularity helped establish Presley as a rising star in the music industry.
  5. Live Performances: “Money Honey” became a staple in Elvis Presley’s live performances during the mid-1950s. His charismatic stage presence and electrifying renditions of songs like “Money Honey” contributed to the excitement and fervor of the early rock and roll concerts, solidifying his status as a dynamic live performer.

Video

Lyrics

You know, the landlord rang my front door bell
I let it ring for a long, long spell
I went to the window,
I peeped through the blind,
And asked him to tell me what’s on his mind
He said,

Money, honey, uh uh
Money, honey
Money, honey, if you want to get along with me

Well, I screamed and I hollered,
I was so hard-pressed
I called the woman that I loved the best
I finally got my baby about half past three,
She said I’d like to know what you want with me
I said,

Money, honey, uh uh
Money, honey
Money, honey,
If you want to get along with me

Well, I said tell me baby, what’s wrong with you?
From this day on our romance is through
I said tell me baby face to face
‘Bout how could another man take my place, she said

Money, honey, uh uh
Money, honey
Money, honey,
If you want to get a long with me

Well, I’ve learned my lesson and now I know
The sun may shine and the winds may blow
The women may come and the women may go,
But before I say I love you so, I want

Money, honey, uh uh
Money, honey
Money, honey,
If you want to get along with me