Introduction
Emerging from the depths of blues music, “Baby, What You Want Me to Do” first took shape in the hands of prolific bluesman Jimmy Reed. Penned in 1956, the song captured the raw emotions and struggles of love and longing, resonating deeply with blues enthusiasts. Reed’s original rendition, infused with his signature harmonica riffs and soulful vocals, cemented the song’s place in the blues canon.
Four years later, the song caught the attention of Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll. Intrigued by its bluesy charm and relatable sentiments, Presley decided to make “Baby, What You Want Me to Do” his own. In 1960, he recorded his version, infusing it with his signature blend of rockabilly swagger and heartfelt emotion.
Presley’s rendition injected new life into the song, propelling it to mainstream popularity. His passionate vocals, coupled with the dynamic interplay of his band, transformed the blues ballad into a rock and roll anthem. The song’s success further solidified Presley’s status as a musical pioneer, capable of seamlessly bridging genres and captivating audiences worldwide.
Today, “Baby, What You Want Me to Do” stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to transcend boundaries and connect hearts. Its journey from blues roots to Elvis’ soulful rendition underscores the song’s ability to speak to the universal human experience of love, desire, and longing. Whether heard in Reed’s original bluesy lament or Presley’s rock and roll reinvention, “Baby, What You Want Me to Do” remains a timeless classic, a testament to the enduring legacy of blues and the transformative power of music
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Lyrics
We’re goin’ up, we’re goin’ down
We’re goin’ up, down down up
Any way you wanna let it roll
Yeah, yeah, yeah
You got me doin’ what you want me
Oh baby what you want me to doYou got me peepin’ you got me hidin’
You got me peep hide hide peep
Any way you wanna let it roll
Yeah yeah yeah
You got me doin’ what you want me
Baby what you want me to do