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Introduction
Wooden Heart: A Musical Journey from German Folklore to Elvis Presley’s Soul
Emerging from the depths of German folk music, “Wooden Heart” captivated audiences worldwide as Elvis Presley’s soulful rendition propelled it to international stardom. The song’s origins trace back to the 19th century, where the German folk song “Muss i denn zum Städtele hinaus” (Do I Have to Leave for Town?) resonated with themes of love, longing, and farewell.
In 1959, German bandleader Bert Kaempfert and American songwriters Fred Wise, Ben Weisman, and Kay Twomey adapted the melody and lyrics, transforming the traditional folk tune into a modern pop ballad. Titled “Wooden Heart,” the song retained the essence of the original while infusing it with a contemporary flair.
Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, encountered “Wooden Heart” during his time stationed in Germany for military service. Entranced by its poignant melody and heartfelt lyrics, Presley decided to record his own version of the song.
Released in 1960 as part of the soundtrack for the film “G.I. Blues,” Elvis Presley’s “Wooden Heart” soared to the top of the charts, becoming a global sensation. Presley’s rendition infused the song with his signature blend of rock and roll, country, and gospel, captivating audiences with its emotional depth and soulful delivery.
The song’s success extended beyond the United States, topping charts in several European countries and becoming a staple in Presley’s international repertoire. “Wooden Heart” cemented its place in music history as a timeless classic, bridging the gap between traditional German folk music and the era of rock and roll.
Presley’s rendition of “Wooden Heart” stands as a testament to his ability to transcend musical genres and connect with audiences on a universal level. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to evoke emotions of love, loss, and nostalgia, making it a cherished piece of music that continues to resonate across generations.
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Lyrics
Can’t you see
I love you
Please don’t break my heart in two
That’s not hard to do
‘Cause I don’t have a wooden heart
And if you say goodbye
Then I know that I would cry
Maybe I would die
‘Cause I don’t have a wooden heart
There’s no strings upon this love of mine
It was always you from the start
Treat me nice
Treat me good
Treat me like you really should
‘Cause I’m not made of wood
And I don’t have a wooden heartMuß i’ denn, muß i’ denn
Zum Städtele hinaus,
Städtele hinaus
Und du mein Schatz bleibst hierMuß i’ denn, muß i’ denn
Zum Städtele hinaus,
Städtele hinaus
Und du mein Schatz bleibst hierThere’s no strings upon this love of mine
It was always you from the start
Sei mir gut
Sei mir gut
Sei mir wie du wirklich sollst
Wie du wirklich sollst
‘Cause I don’t have a wooden heart