Claude Demetrious
Claude Demetrius (August 3, 1916 – May 1, 1988) was an influential American songwriter, renowned for his contributions to the rockabilly genre. Born in Bath, Maine, Demetrius moved to New York City in his early twenties, where he began his prolific career in music. He collaborated with legendary artists such as Louis Armstrong and was closely associated with Louis Jordan during the 1940s. Together with Jordan and his wife, Fleecie Moore, Demetrius co-wrote several notable songs, including "Ain't That Just Like a Woman (They'll Do It Every Time)."
Demetrius's career took a significant turn in 1956 when he began working for Gladys Music, Inc., a company that held exclusive publishing rights to Elvis Presley's music. He co-wrote "I Was The One," the B-side to Presley's first RCA single, "Heartbreak Hotel." His success continued with "Mean Woman Blues," featured in Presley's 1957 film "Loving You," and "Santa, Bring My Baby Back (To Me)" from Elvis' Christmas Album.
In 1958, Demetrius achieved his greatest success with "Hard Headed Woman," written for Presley's film "King Creole." The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts. "Mean Woman Blues" was later recorded by Roy Orbison, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1963.
Claude Demetrius passed away in New York City in 1988, leaving behind a legacy of timeless rockabilly hits that continue to resonate with audiences.
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