About the song
Background
- Songwriters: Written by the legendary duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who wrote many of Elvis’s hits.
- Film: Featured prominently in Elvis’s iconic 1957 movie “Jailhouse Rock.” The famous dance scene with the song remains a highlight of his film career.
- Original Release: 1957, on the ‘Jailhouse Rock’ EP (Extended Play) release.
- Style: Classic rock and roll with a bluesy flavor.
Lyrics
The lyrics are a playful and direct plea for affection and good treatment in a relationship. Here’s a snippet:
*“You know I’ll be your slave, If you ask me to, But if you don’t behave, I’ll walk right out on you.
If you want my love, then take my advice, Treat me nice.”*
Themes
- Desire for Respect: The core theme is the narrator wanting to be treated well by his romantic partner. He asserts his value and a willingness to walk away if he’s not appreciated.
- Playful Negotiation: There’s a playful back-and-forth. The narrator offers devotion but jokingly warns that he expects to be treated right in return.
- Confidence and Self-Worth: Despite the playful tone, the song has an undercurrent of self-confidence, reflecting Elvis’s own swagger and charisma.
Additional Notes
- Popularity: “Treat Me Nice” continues to be a beloved Elvis classic and holds up as a great early rock and roll song.
- Covers: The song has been covered by numerous artists, from Jerry Lee Lewis to Linda Ronstadt, attesting to its lasting appeal.
Video
Lyrics
When I walk through that doorBaby, be politeYou’re gonna make me soreIf you don’t greet me rightDon’t you ever kiss me once, kiss me twiceTreat me nice
I know that you’ve been toldIt’s not fair to teaseSo, if you come on coldI’m really gonna freezeIf you don’t want me to be cold as iceTreat me nice
Make me feel at homeIf you really careScratch my backAnd run your pretty fingers through my hair
You know I’ll be your slaveIf you ask me toBut if you don’t behaveI’ll walk right out on youIf you want my love then take my adviceTreat me nice
Make me feel at homeIf you really careScratch my back and run your prettyFingers through my hair
You know I’ll be your slaveIf you ask me toBut if you don’t behaveI’ll walk right out on youIf you want my love then take my adviceTreat me nice, treat me nice
If you really want my love then treat me nice