Introduction
“Hard Luck” is a bluesy ballad written by Ben Weisman and Sid Wayne, and performed by Elvis Presley in the 1966 film “Frankie and Johnny”. The song, which was released as a single in 1966, captures the essence of feeling down and out, expressing the relatable sentiment of having no place to go and nothing to hold on to. Presley’s soulful delivery and the song’s melancholic melody resonated with audiences, making it a popular choice on country and pop radio stations.
The song’s origins can be traced back to Weisman and Wayne’s collaboration on the 1958 film “King Creole”. Their songwriting partnership continued through the 1960s, producing hits like “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Viva Las Vegas” for Presley. “Hard Luck” stands out among their collaborations for its poignant lyrics and bluesy instrumentation, showcasing Presley’s versatility as an artist.
The song’s inclusion in the 1966 film “Frankie and Johnny” further solidified its popularity. The movie, a loose adaptation of the classic ballad about a train robber and his girlfriend, features Presley as the title character, a gambler and womanizer who finds himself in a downward spiral. “Hard Luck” serves as an emotional turning point in the film, as Frankie reflects on his troubled past and uncertain future.
In the song’s opening lines, Presley sings, “I’m feeling mighty low/I got no place that I can go/I’ve got some blues to sing/And oh, so much remembering, woe.” These lyrics capture the essence of feeling down and out, with no hope of turning things around. The song’s bluesy instrumentation, including harmonica and electric guitar, further enhances the melancholic mood.
Despite its somber theme, “Hard Luck” offers a glimmer of hope. The lyrics suggest that even in the darkest of times, there is still a chance for redemption. As Presley sings, “I’ll find a way to make it on my own/I’ll find a way to carry on.” This message of perseverance resonates with listeners, offering a sense of solidarity and encouragement in times of hardship.
“Hard Luck” remains a popular and well-loved song by Elvis Presley. Its relatable lyrics and soulful delivery have touched the hearts of generations of listeners, making it a timeless classic.
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Lyrics
Oh, I’m really feeling mighty low
No, no, no, I got no place that I can go
So I’ve got some blues to sing
And oh, so much remembering, woeBlack cats, keep away from me
Take my advice, go shinning up a tree
I got hard luck, the hardest kind a luck you’ll find
I ain’t lyin’, I’ve got the bluest kinda blues
Drivin’ me right outta my mindShe’s gone, said toodle-loo
Kissed her goodbye and my, my, my money too
I’ve got hard luck, the hardest kinda luck you’ve seen
I mean, the way I’m runnin’ lately
My lucky number is thirteenWhere do I belong, everything I do is wrong
All wrong, wrong as can be
Who’s stacking all the decks
Lady luck has got the hex on me
I’m on her knee da da da daShove off, oh, I’m warning you
This thing I caught, you know could be catchin’ too
I’ve got hard luck, the hardest kinda luck there can be
Yes, siree, I guess hard luck always chooses
Natural born losers like me, oh ah