About the song
When speaking of the golden age of rock and roll, few names resonate quite as powerfully as **Elvis Presley**. With his unmistakable voice, charismatic stage presence, and a cultural impact that shaped an entire generation, **Presley** continues to captivate listeners decades after his heyday. Among his extensive catalog, **”Treat Me Nice”**, released in 1957, stands out not just as a catchy tune, but as a revealing piece of the complex image that **Elvis** carefully curated during his early years at the peak of fame.
Written by the dynamic songwriting duo **Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller**, who were responsible for many of **Elvis’s** hits, **”Treat Me Nice”** was originally featured on the soundtrack for the film *Jailhouse Rock*. It may not always receive the same spotlight as the title track from that movie, but its subtle charm, lyrical assertiveness, and smooth, bluesy backing make it a noteworthy example of **Presley’s** more nuanced musical offerings.
What makes **”Treat Me Nice”** compelling is how it balances vulnerability and confidence. On the surface, it’s a plea for respect in a romantic relationship—“If you want my love then take my advice, treat me nice.” But listen more closely, and you’ll hear the voice of a young man grappling with fame, control, and identity. **Presley** delivers the lyrics with a blend of swagger and sensitivity, showcasing his ability to inhabit a song fully, making the listener feel as though he’s speaking directly to them.
Musically, the track leans into a lighter rockabilly rhythm, supported by subtle backing vocals and an understated yet effective instrumental arrangement. The song doesn’t rely on grandiosity to make its point. Instead, it quietly asserts its presence—much like **Elvis** himself in his more introspective moments. There’s an intimacy here that sets **”Treat Me Nice”** apart from his more bombastic hits.
For longtime fans, **”Treat Me Nice”** serves as a reminder of the versatility and emotional range **Elvis Presley** possessed. It’s a song that invites a second, third, even a fourth listen—not because it demands attention, but because it earns it. In an era when rock and roll was still finding its footing, **Elvis** was already showing the world that there was more to the genre than rebellion and rhythm. There was heart. And **”Treat Me Nice”** is full of it.
Video
Lyrics
When I walk through that door
Baby, be polite
You gonna make me sore
If you don’t greet me right
Don’t you ever kiss me once, kiss me twice
Treat me niceI know that you’ve been told
It’s not fair to tease
So if you come on cold
I’m really gonna freeze
If you don’t want me to be cold as ice
Treat me niceMake me feel at home
If you really care
Scratch my back and run your pretty
Fingers through my hairYou 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
