About the Song
In the realm of cinematic classics, few films capture the vibrant energy and infectious fun of the 1960s quite like Viva Las Vegas. Released in 1964, the movie not only boasts a captivating storyline and dazzling visuals, but also features a musical gem – the Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret duet, “The Lady Loves Me”. This playful and energetic song perfectly encapsulates the film’s spirit and the undeniable chemistry between its two stars.
“The Lady Loves Me” isn’t your typical Elvis ballad. This swinging number, written by Roy C. Barrett and Sid Tepper, throws off a playful and lighthearted vibe right from the start. The opening trumpet fanfare sets the stage for a toe-tapping good time, instantly transporting listeners to the bustling Las Vegas scene.
But the true magic lies in the interplay between Presley’s iconic voice and Ann-Margret’s powerful vocals. Elvis, ever the charismatic showman, delivers the lyrics with a wink and a playful swagger. Lines like “‘Cause I watched Violet, She loves me, she loves me not” showcase his trademark charm and playful confidence.
Ann-Margret doesn’t shy away from matching Elvis’ energy. Her sassy vocals and playful banter add another dimension to the song. Lines like “Would you like to make a bet? The gentleman’s all wet” reveal a playful defiance and a willingness to spar with the King himself. Their voices intertwine seamlessly, creating a delightful blend of vocal acrobatics and playful teasing.
The lyrics themselves are a delightful exploration of flirtation and the thrill of the chase. The song tells the story of a man (Elvis) convinced that a woman (Ann-Margret) is secretly smitten with him, despite her outward indifference. Lines like “Her heart’s desire under that eye she is burning like fire” showcase his confidence, bordering on delusion, which Ann-Margret playfully undermines throughout the song.
“The Lady Loves Me” quickly became a fan favorite, adding to the film’s overall success. The song’s infectious energy and playful spirit continue to charm listeners today. It’s a testament to the power of a well-written duet, showcasing the undeniable chemistry between Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret, and serving as a delightful reminder of the carefree spirit of the 1960s.
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Lyrics: The Lady Loves Me
She loves me, she loves me not
She loves me, she loves me not
She loves me, she loves me, she loves meThe lady loves me and it shows
In spite of the way she turns up her nose
I’m her ideal, her heart’s desire
Under that ice she’s burning like fireShe’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-faire
As much as an elephant or a bear
I’d like to take him for a spin
Back to the zoo to visit his kinHe’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 me
The gentleman’s crazy obviously
The lady’s dying to be kissed
The gentleman needs a psychiatristI’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 skids
Both of his heads are flipping their lids
Tonight she’ll hold me in her arms
I’d rather be holding hydrogen bombsWill someone tell this Romeo
I’m not his Juliet
The lady loves me
But she doesn’t know it yetShe wants me
Like poison ivy
Needs me
Like a hole in the head
Anyone can see she’s got it bad
Ugh. he’s madThe gentleman is an egotist
I’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 tête-à-tête
The lady loves me
But she doesn’t know it yetOh yes, she loves me
Dig that shrinking violet
Oh, she really loves me
Here’s one gal you’ll never getShe lo- lo- loves me
Would you like to make a bet?
I said the lady loves me
The gentleman’s all wet