Introduction
“Baby What You Want Me to Do” is a blues standard written and recorded by Jimmy Reed in 1959. This mid-tempo blues shuffle, performed in the key of E, showcases Reed’s distinctive style, characterized by his laid-back vocals, guitar, and harmonica playing. The song’s unique chord structure, which includes substitutions in bars nine and ten, sets it apart from typical twelve-bar blues compositions. Despite its seemingly simple composition, it’s considered a quintessential example of the blues genre.
In 1968, Elvis Presley delivered a memorable live performance of “Baby What You Want Me to Do” during his ’68 Comeback Special. This rendition was significant as it highlighted Presley’s deep roots in blues and R&B music. The performance was well-received and later included in the album “Elvis 1968 Comeback Special,” introducing the song to a broader audience and solidifying its place in rock and roll history.
The song has inspired numerous artists across various genres, including a notable live version by Etta James in 1963. James’s rendition, featuring a harmonica-imitating vocal solo, further cemented the track’s status as a blues classic.
“Baby What You Want Me to Do” continues to be celebrated for its enduring influence and remains a testament to the rich legacy of blues music.