Introduction
Nestled in the heart of the Nevada desert, Las Vegas stands as a shimmering oasis of lights, excitement, and entertainment. Often referred to as the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” the city’s magnetic charm has captivated millions of visitors from around the globe. Among the various nicknames that adorn this dazzling city, “Viva Las Vegas” remains an anthem that echoes through time, celebrating the spirit and allure of this iconic destination.
The Birth of “Viva Las Vegas”
“Viva Las Vegas” is not just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Penned by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the song was immortalized by the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley. Released in 1964 as the title track of the film of the same name, the song encapsulated the vibrant energy, excitement, and non-stop revelry that defined Las Vegas in the 1960s.
Did you know
- Impromptu Collaboration: The song “Viva Las Vegas” wasn’t originally intended for Elvis. Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the songwriters, were inspired to write it after being asked to contribute a song for the film of the same name. The quick creation of the song and its immediate association with Elvis added to its spontaneity.
- Duane Eddy’s Influence: The distinctive guitar sound in “Viva Las Vegas” was performed by Duane Eddy, a renowned rock and roll guitarist. His twangy guitar style became a signature element of the song, contributing to its catchy and memorable sound.
- Ann-Margret’s Impact: Ann-Margret, Elvis’s co-star in the film “Viva Las Vegas,” not only shared the screen with him but also lent her vocal talents to the soundtrack. She performed the duet “The Lady Loves Me” with Elvis in the movie, creating additional musical magic beyond “Viva Las Vegas.”
Video
Lyrics
Bright light city gonna set my soulGonna set my soul on fireGot a whole lot of money that’s ready to burnSo get those stakes up higherThere’s a thousand pretty women waitin’ out thereAnd they’re all livin’ the devil may careAnd I’m just the devil with love to spare, soViva Las Vegas, Viva Las VegasHow I wish that there were moreThan the twenty-four hours in the dayEven if there were forty moreI wouldn’t sleep a minute awayOh, there’s black jack and poker and the roulette wheelA fortune won and lost on ev’ry dealAll you need’s a strong heart and a nerve of steelViva Las Vegas, Viva Las VegasViva Las Vegas with your neon flashin’And your one arm bandits crashin’All those hopes down the drainViva Las Vegas turnin’ day into nighttimeTurnin’ night into daytimeIf you see it onceYou’ll never be the same againI’m gonna keep on the runI’m gonna have me some funIf it costs me my very last dimeIf I wind up broke, oh wellI’ll always remember that I had a swingin’ timeI’m gonna give it ev’rything I’ve gotLady luck please let the dice stay hotLet me shoot a seven with ev’ry shot, ahViva Las Vegas, Viva Las VegasViva Las Vegas, Viva, Viva Las Vegas
