The song itself is an homage to the singer Elvis Presley, specifically referring to his fall from grace. The song was inspired by a postcard possessed by Jorge Calderón that depicted Graceland's TV room as is mentioned in the song. While Jorge was working with Zevon on a never completed "violent and terrible song", Warren noticed the postcard and asked about it. In the center of the room, on the coffee table, was a white porcelain monkey figurine with onyx eyes. Coincidentally, the songs "Gorilla", "Gorilla, You're a Desperado", "Leave My Monkey Alone", and "Monkey Wash Donkey Rinse" also mentioned monkeys and other primates. The song "Jesus Mentioned" is also supposedly a homage to Elvis.