Introduction:
“Too Much Monkey Business”: A Rock and Roll Handoff
Elvis Presley’s “Too Much Monkey Business” might have his name on it, but the story starts with another rock and roll pioneer – Chuck Berry.
In 1956, Chuck Berry unleashed “Too Much Monkey Business” on the world. This rockin’ tune, with its driving rhythm and Berry’s signature guitar licks, became a hit, reaching number four on the Billboard juke box charts. The lyrics tell the story of a frustrated customer dealing with a fast-talking salesman. “Monkey business” was a slang term for dishonesty or trickery, perfectly capturing the situation.
Elvis, a huge admirer of Berry’s music, took notice. While “Too Much Monkey Business” wasn’t originally intended for release by the King, he laid down his own version during a warm-up session for another song in 1968. This version, with slightly updated lyrics to reflect the times, ended up on the 1969 album “Elvis Sings Flaming Star.”
So, while Elvis’s rendition brought “Too Much Monkey Business” to a new generation, the song’s roots lie in the electrifying energy of Chuck Berry’s rock and roll. It’s a testament to the collaborative spirit of the early rock and roll scene, where artists like Elvis and Berry influenced and inspired each other, forever shaping the sound of popular music.
Now, crank up the volume and get ready for a taste of rock and roll history with Elvis Presley’s take on “Too Much Monkey Business!”
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