Introduction
“Mean Woman Blues” is a rock and roll song written by Claude DeMetrius that Elvis Presley recorded for the 1957 film Loving You. The track was laid down on January 13, 1957, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California, with Presley on rhythm guitar, Scotty Moore on lead guitar, Bill Black on bass, D.J. Fontana on drums, Gordon Stoker on piano, and backing vocals by The Jordanaires .
In the film, Presley portrays Deke Rivers, a rising star in the music industry. In one scene, he performs “Mean Woman Blues” in a bar, showcasing his character’s musical talent. The song’s lyrics describe a tumultuous relationship with a woman who is as “mean as she can be,” featuring vivid imagery and a catchy melody .
Released as a single in June 1957, “Mean Woman Blues” achieved commercial success, reaching number 11 on Billboard’s “Most Played in Jukeboxes” R&B chart . The song’s energetic performance and relatable theme contributed to its popularity among audiences.
Over the years, “Mean Woman Blues” has been covered by various artists, including Roy Orbison, whose 1963 rendition peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart . The song remains a testament to Presley’s enduring influence on the rock and roll genre and his ability to bring compelling narratives to life through music