Elvis Presley – “I’m a Roustabout” (Recorded 1964, Released 2003)

Lost for decades. Found in time.

Sometimes, treasures from the past resurface — and when they do, they remind us just how electric Elvis Presley really was. Originally recorded for the 1964 film Roustabout, “I’m a Roustabout” was written by the legendary songwriting duo Otis Blackwell and Winfield Scott, but surprisingly, it didn’t make it into the final cut of the movie. Instead, it was shelved and forgotten for nearly four decades.

It wasn’t until 2003 that this rare Elvis gem was rediscovered and officially released, much to the joy of fans worldwide. And what a find it was.

 The song is gritty, playful, and full of swagger — capturing the raw, rebellious spirit of Elvis at a time when his film roles often softened his image. His vocal delivery on “I’m a Roustabout” is urgent and electrifying, infused with energy that makes it feel less like a soundtrack piece and more like a standalone rock ’n’ roll punch.

 In the movie, Roustabout, Elvis plays Charlie Rogers, a wandering singer who finds temporary belonging in a traveling carnival. The song’s lyrics reflect that rough-and-tumble lifestyle — one of movement, hustle, and finding freedom outside society’s norms.

“A roamin’, a roamin’, a roamin’, a roamin’ roustabout…”
Simple, rhythmic, and alive with motion — it’s Elvis doing what he did best: turning a scene into a soundtrack for restless souls.

 “I’m a Roustabout” isn’t just a great Elvis song — it’s a lost moment of magic, reclaimed. A reminder of the King’s ability to turn even a carnival worker’s story into something unforgettable.