With me it is exceptionally true that the Presidency is no bed of roses.
The song Hail to the Chief became specially connected to the presendency, specifically because of James Polk. Although it had been played in connection with at least three earlier presidents, Sarah Polk, James’ wife, asked for Hail to the Chief to be played not only at his inauguration, but regularly when he made any appearance since he didn’t stand out (he was only 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighed 174 pounds). According to historian William Seale, “Polk was not an impressive figure, so some announcement was necessary to avoid the embarrassment of his entering a crowded room unnoticed. At large affairs the band … rolled the drums as they played the march …and a way was cleared for the President.”
The Haus of Dcaligari 