About the song
“Puppet on a String” is a delightful song that brings together the legendary Elvis Presley and the charming Shelley Fabares. Released in 1965, the song was part of the soundtrack for the musical film “Girl Happy,” in which Elvis starred alongside Shelley Fabares. Their chemistry in the film and the song was evident, captivating audiences and contributing to the film’s success.
Written by the talented songwriting team of Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, “Puppet on a String” is a catchy and upbeat tune that showcases Elvis’s charismatic voice and Fabares’s sweet harmonies. Tepper and Bennett were known for their work with Elvis, having penned numerous songs for him, and “Puppet on a String” is a testament to their ability to craft memorable pop songs.
In the film “Girl Happy,” Elvis plays Rusty Wells, a nightclub singer who is hired to keep an eye on a wealthy businessman’s daughter, played by Shelley Fabares, during her spring break in Fort Lauderdale. The song “Puppet on a String” fits perfectly within the film’s playful and romantic storyline, adding to the light-hearted fun that defines the movie.
While “Puppet on a String” didn’t chart as a single, it remains a beloved part of Elvis’s extensive discography and showcases the lighthearted, fun-loving side of his musical repertoire. The film’s soundtrack album, also titled “Girl Happy,” performed well, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, and further solidified Elvis’s status as a multi-talented entertainer who could seamlessly blend acting and singing.
The collaboration between Elvis and Shelley Fabares in “Puppet on a String” is a charming reminder of a bygone era when musical films were a staple of popular entertainment. Their performances exude a sense of joy and effortless chemistry that continues to enchant audiences to this day.
“Puppet on a String” is more than just a song; it’s a nostalgic trip back to the 1960s, highlighting the playful and carefree spirit of the time. For fans of Elvis Presley and Shelley Fabares, it’s a delightful piece that brings back fond memories of their magical on-screen partnership.
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