Introduction
Though often credited solely to Elvis, “The Lady Loves Me” is a captivating duet shared with the vivacious Ann-Margret in the 1964 musical comedy “Viva Las Vegas.” More than just a catchy tune, the song embodies the movie’s playful energy and encapsulates the push-and-pull of attraction while hinting at a deeper longing beneath the surface.
Composed by Roy C. Bennett and Sid Tepper, the lyrics playfully mock a love triangle. Elvis, portraying race car driver Lucky Jackson, boasts about his undeniable charm, convinced the “lady” loves him despite her aloof facade. Ann-Margret, as Rusty Martin, counters with sassy retorts, insisting she wants nothing to do with him. Meanwhile, Rusty’s jealous beau, a bumbling millionaire, fuels the comedic rivalry.
While the song is brimming with Elvis’s signature swagger and Ann-Margret’s sassy vibrancy, there’s a subtle vulnerability woven into the playful banter. Elvis yearns for genuine connection, singing, “She’s falling fast, she’s on the skids.” Ann-Margret’s hidden desire peeks through when she declares, “Everyone can see she’s got it bad.” This underlying yearning adds depth to the seemingly lighthearted song, hinting at a missed opportunity for true love in the midst of the comedic chaos.
“The Lady Loves Me” became an instant classic, thanks to its infectious melody, witty lyrics, and the undeniable chemistry between Elvis and Ann-Margret. So, when you hear the first notes, prepare to be swept away by a whirlwind of fun, playful teasing, and a touch of melancholy, all wrapped up in a song that perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of “Viva Las Vegas.”
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Lyrics
She loves me, she loves me notShe loves me, she loves me not She loves me, she loves me, she loves me The lady loves me and it showsIn spite of the way she turns up her noseI’m her ideal, her hearts desire Under that ice she’s burning like fire She’d like to cuddle up to me She’s playing hard to get The lady loves me, but she doesn’t know it yetThe gentleman has savoir-faireAs much as an elephant or a bear I’d like to take him for a spin Back to the zoo to visit his kin He’s got about as much appeal as a soggy cigarette The lady loathes him but he doesn’t know it yetThe lady’s got a crush on meThe gentleman’s crazy obviously The lady’s dying to be kissed The gentleman needs a psychiatrist I’d rather kiss a rattlesnake Or play Russian roulette The lady loves me, but she doesn’t know it yetShe’s falling fast she’s on the skidsBoth of his heads are flipping their lids Tonight she’ll hold me in her arms I’d rather be holding hydrogen bombs Will someone tell this Romeo I’m not his Juliet The lady loves me, but she doesn’t know it yetShe wants meLike poison ivy Needs me Like a hole in the head Everyone can see she’s got it bad He’s mad!The gentleman is an egotistI’m simply aware I’m hard to resist He’s one man I could learn to hate How’s about having dinner at eight I’d rather dine with Frankenstein In a moonlight tete-a-tete The lady loves me, but she doesn’t know it yetOh yes she loves meDig that shrinking violet Oh she really loves me Here’s one gal you’ll never get She loves me Would you like to make a bet I said the lady loves me The gentleman’s all wet