Mary Boy Child
"Mary Boy Child" is a Christmas song written by Jester Hairston in 1956 and it was first recorded by Harry Belafonte. An edited version was subsequently released as a single, topping #1 on the UK charts for 6 weeks from late November 1957 to early January 1958.
One of the most famous covers of the song is from the disco-group Boney M with their version of "Mary's Boy Child - Oh My Lord". This version returned the song to the top of the UK charts for 3 weeks in December 1978.
It has also been recorded by artistes including Nat King Cole, John Denver, The Brothers Four, Jim Reeves, Rolf Harris and many others.
Tuesday, 29 December 2009
50s - You Send Me (Sam Cooke)
You Send Me
"You Send Me", written and sung by singer / songwriter, Sam Cooke, became an instant hit when released in 1957. It topped the US Billoard Pop and R&B singles charts for 2 weeks in November.
The record established Cooke as a mainstream R&B singer, apart from his gospel roots. And since its release, the song has become a landmark record of the soul genre, which Cooke helped create.
The song has been covered by a number of artists, including Nat King Cole, The Drifters, Everly Brothers, Jose Feliciano, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes, Rod Stewart and Michael Bolton, etc.
Lyrics:
Darling you send me
I know you send me
Darling you send me
Honest you do, honest you do
Honest you do
whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh you thrill me
I know you, you, you thrill me
Darling you, you, you, you thrill me
Honest you do
At first I thought it was infatuation
But woo, it's lasted so long
Now I find myself wanting
To marry you and take you home
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh you, you, you, you send me
I know you send me
I know you send me
Honest you do
Whoa-oh-oh, whenever I'm with you
I know, I know, I know when I'm near you
Mmm hmm, mmm hmm, honest you do, honest you do
Whoa-oh-oh, I know-oh-oh-oh
I know, I know, I know, when you hold me
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh, whenever you kiss me
Mmm hmm, mmm hmm, honest you do
At first I thought it was infatuation
But woo, it's lasted so long
Now I find myself wanting
To marry you and take you home
I know, I know, I know, you send me
I know you send me
Whoa-oh-oh-oh, you you you you send me
Honest you do
"You Send Me", written and sung by singer / songwriter, Sam Cooke, became an instant hit when released in 1957. It topped the US Billoard Pop and R&B singles charts for 2 weeks in November.
The record established Cooke as a mainstream R&B singer, apart from his gospel roots. And since its release, the song has become a landmark record of the soul genre, which Cooke helped create.
The song has been covered by a number of artists, including Nat King Cole, The Drifters, Everly Brothers, Jose Feliciano, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes, Rod Stewart and Michael Bolton, etc.
Lyrics:
Darling you send me
I know you send me
Darling you send me
Honest you do, honest you do
Honest you do
whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh you thrill me
I know you, you, you thrill me
Darling you, you, you, you thrill me
Honest you do
At first I thought it was infatuation
But woo, it's lasted so long
Now I find myself wanting
To marry you and take you home
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh you, you, you, you send me
I know you send me
I know you send me
Honest you do
Whoa-oh-oh, whenever I'm with you
I know, I know, I know when I'm near you
Mmm hmm, mmm hmm, honest you do, honest you do
Whoa-oh-oh, I know-oh-oh-oh
I know, I know, I know, when you hold me
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh, whenever you kiss me
Mmm hmm, mmm hmm, honest you do
At first I thought it was infatuation
But woo, it's lasted so long
Now I find myself wanting
To marry you and take you home
I know, I know, I know, you send me
I know you send me
Whoa-oh-oh-oh, you you you you send me
Honest you do
Friday, 18 December 2009
50s - Jailhouse Rock/Treat Me Nice (Elvis)
Jailhouse Rock
"Jailhouse Rock" and its B-side "Treat Me Nice", both written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, from Elvis Presley's third movie, topped the US charts for 7 weeks (6 weeks in October - November 1957, with a break for 2 weeks by Sam Cooke's "You Send Me", and back to top for 1 week in December).
"Jailhouse Rock" was a #1 hit for UK charts for 3 weeks (January - February 1958). In 2005, the song was re-released in the UK and reached #1 for a single week.
Among the artites who have covered the "Jailhouse Rock" are: Jerry Lee Lewis, The Animals, Patti Smith, ZZ Top, John Cougar Mellencamp, Michael Bolton and Carl Perkins.
"Jailhouse Rock" and its B-side "Treat Me Nice", both written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, from Elvis Presley's third movie, topped the US charts for 7 weeks (6 weeks in October - November 1957, with a break for 2 weeks by Sam Cooke's "You Send Me", and back to top for 1 week in December).
"Jailhouse Rock" was a #1 hit for UK charts for 3 weeks (January - February 1958). In 2005, the song was re-released in the UK and reached #1 for a single week.
Among the artites who have covered the "Jailhouse Rock" are: Jerry Lee Lewis, The Animals, Patti Smith, ZZ Top, John Cougar Mellencamp, Michael Bolton and Carl Perkins.
50s - Wake Up Little Susie (Everly Brothers)
Wake Up Little Susie
"Wake Up Little Susie" is a popular song written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant in 1957. The song is best known in a recording by The Everly Brothers.
The song reached #1 on the Billboard charts briefly for 1 week in 1957, despite having been banned from Boston radio stations for lyrics that— at the time —were considered suggestive. It got to #2 on the United Kingdom song charts.
Among notable musical groups performing covers of the song are Simon and Garfunkel and the Grateful Dead. Simon and Garfunkel's live version of "Wake Up Little Susie" reached #27 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982. Other artistes who recorded this song include Loggins & Messina, The Flying Burrito Brothers and Suzy Quatro.
lyrics:
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
We've both been sound asleep, wake up, little Susie, and weep
The movies over, its four oclock, and we're in trouble deep
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie, well
Whatta we gonna tell your mama
Whatta we gonna tell your pa
Whatta we gonna tell our friends when they say ooh-la-la
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie, well
I told your mama that youd be in by ten
Well Susie baby looks like we goofed again
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie, we gotta go home
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
The movie wasn't so hot, it didn't have much of a plot
We fell asleep, our goose is cooked, our reputation is shot
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie, well
Whatta we gonna tell your mama
Whatta we gonna tell your pa
Whatta we gonna tell our friends when they say ooh-la-la
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie
"Wake Up Little Susie" is a popular song written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant in 1957. The song is best known in a recording by The Everly Brothers.
The song reached #1 on the Billboard charts briefly for 1 week in 1957, despite having been banned from Boston radio stations for lyrics that— at the time —were considered suggestive. It got to #2 on the United Kingdom song charts.
Among notable musical groups performing covers of the song are Simon and Garfunkel and the Grateful Dead. Simon and Garfunkel's live version of "Wake Up Little Susie" reached #27 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982. Other artistes who recorded this song include Loggins & Messina, The Flying Burrito Brothers and Suzy Quatro.
lyrics:
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
We've both been sound asleep, wake up, little Susie, and weep
The movies over, its four oclock, and we're in trouble deep
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie, well
Whatta we gonna tell your mama
Whatta we gonna tell your pa
Whatta we gonna tell our friends when they say ooh-la-la
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie, well
I told your mama that youd be in by ten
Well Susie baby looks like we goofed again
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie, we gotta go home
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
The movie wasn't so hot, it didn't have much of a plot
We fell asleep, our goose is cooked, our reputation is shot
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie, well
Whatta we gonna tell your mama
Whatta we gonna tell your pa
Whatta we gonna tell our friends when they say ooh-la-la
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie
Thursday, 17 December 2009
50s - That"ll Be The Day (The Crickets)
That'll Be The Day
"That'll Be the Day" is a song written by Buddy Holly and Jerry Allison. To dodge some legal contract complications, it was released under the name of The Crickets instead of the band's original name of Buddy Holly and The Crikets.
It topped the US Billboard charts briefly for 1 week in September 1957 and when released later in UK, it went up to the #1 spot and remained there for 3 weeks in November.
The song is considered a classic in the rock and roll genre. It has been covered by many artistes including Linda Ronstadt, The Beatles, Paul & Barry Ryan, etc.
Lyrics:
Well, that'll be the day,
When you say good-bye.
Ye-hess, that'll be the day,
When you make me cry-ii.
You say you're gonna leave,
You know it's a lie.
'Cause that'll be the da-ay-ay,
When I die.
Well, you gimme all your lovin',
And your t-urtle dovin'.
All your hugs and kisses,
And your money too.
We-ell-a, you know you love me, baby,
Still you tell me, "Maybe,
That someday, well, I'll be blue."
Well, when Cupid shot his dart,
He shot it at your heart.
So, if we ever part,
Then I'll leave you!
You sit and hold me,
And you tell me boldly,
That someday, well, I'll be blue.
Well, that'll be the day, whoo-oo,
That'll be the day, whoo-oo,
That'll be the day, whoo-oo,
That'll be the day.
"That'll Be the Day" is a song written by Buddy Holly and Jerry Allison. To dodge some legal contract complications, it was released under the name of The Crickets instead of the band's original name of Buddy Holly and The Crikets.
It topped the US Billboard charts briefly for 1 week in September 1957 and when released later in UK, it went up to the #1 spot and remained there for 3 weeks in November.
The song is considered a classic in the rock and roll genre. It has been covered by many artistes including Linda Ronstadt, The Beatles, Paul & Barry Ryan, etc.
Lyrics:
Well, that'll be the day,
When you say good-bye.
Ye-hess, that'll be the day,
When you make me cry-ii.
You say you're gonna leave,
You know it's a lie.
'Cause that'll be the da-ay-ay,
When I die.
Well, you gimme all your lovin',
And your t-urtle dovin'.
All your hugs and kisses,
And your money too.
We-ell-a, you know you love me, baby,
Still you tell me, "Maybe,
That someday, well, I'll be blue."
Well, when Cupid shot his dart,
He shot it at your heart.
So, if we ever part,
Then I'll leave you!
You sit and hold me,
And you tell me boldly,
That someday, well, I'll be blue.
Well, that'll be the day, whoo-oo,
That'll be the day, whoo-oo,
That'll be the day, whoo-oo,
That'll be the day.
50s - Diana (Paul Anka)
Diana
"Diana" is a song composed and sung by Canadian Paul Anka in 1957. It topped the US Billboard briefly for one week (end August, 1957) but stayed at #1 spot for 9 weeks (!) on the UK single charts from end August to October, 1957.
Paul Anka was only 16 when he recorded the song and it was dedicated to an older girl, Diana Ayoub, with whom Paul sang in Ottawa's Syrian Church Choir.
"Diana" is a song composed and sung by Canadian Paul Anka in 1957. It topped the US Billboard briefly for one week (end August, 1957) but stayed at #1 spot for 9 weeks (!) on the UK single charts from end August to October, 1957.
Paul Anka was only 16 when he recorded the song and it was dedicated to an older girl, Diana Ayoub, with whom Paul sang in Ottawa's Syrian Church Choir.
Friday, 11 December 2009
50s - Tammy (Debbie Reynolds)
Tammy
Next to break Elvis' reign ("Teddy Bear/Loving You") at the US charts was actress/singer Debbie Reynolds with her song "Tammy".
The song was written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans and first debuted in the 1957 film Tammy and the Bachelor).
Debbie's recording of the song earned her a gold record and was the best-selling single by a female vocalist in 1957. It was number one for 3 weeks (2 weeks in August & 1 week in September) on the Billboard pop charts.
Lyrics:
I hear the cottonwoods whisperin' above,
"Tammy ... Tammy ... Tammy's in love"
The ole hooty-owl hooty-hoos to the dove,
"Tammy ... Tammy ... Tammy's in love"
Does my lover feel
What I feel
When he comes near?
My heart beats so joyfully,
You'd think that he could hear
Wish I knew if he knew
What I'm dreamin' of
Tammy ... Tammy ... Tammy's in love
Whippoorwill, whippoorwill, you and I know
Tammy ... Tammy ... can't let him go
The breeze from the bayou keeps murmuring low:
"Tammy ... Tammy ... you love him so"
When the night is warm,
Soft and warm,
I long for his charms
I'd sing like a violin
If I were in his arms
Wish I knew if he knew
What I'm dreaming of
Tammy ... Tammy ... Tammy's in love
Next to break Elvis' reign ("Teddy Bear/Loving You") at the US charts was actress/singer Debbie Reynolds with her song "Tammy".
The song was written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans and first debuted in the 1957 film Tammy and the Bachelor).
Debbie's recording of the song earned her a gold record and was the best-selling single by a female vocalist in 1957. It was number one for 3 weeks (2 weeks in August & 1 week in September) on the Billboard pop charts.
Lyrics:
I hear the cottonwoods whisperin' above,
"Tammy ... Tammy ... Tammy's in love"
The ole hooty-owl hooty-hoos to the dove,
"Tammy ... Tammy ... Tammy's in love"
Does my lover feel
What I feel
When he comes near?
My heart beats so joyfully,
You'd think that he could hear
Wish I knew if he knew
What I'm dreamin' of
Tammy ... Tammy ... Tammy's in love
Whippoorwill, whippoorwill, you and I know
Tammy ... Tammy ... can't let him go
The breeze from the bayou keeps murmuring low:
"Tammy ... Tammy ... you love him so"
When the night is warm,
Soft and warm,
I long for his charms
I'd sing like a violin
If I were in his arms
Wish I knew if he knew
What I'm dreaming of
Tammy ... Tammy ... Tammy's in love
50s - Teddy Bear/Loving You (Elvis)
Teddy Bear / Loving You
After a short-break (of 5 weeks by Pat Boone's Love Letter In The Sand) at the top of the US charts, King Elvis returned to the throne with a double-A side single, "Teddy Bear" and "Loving You" and stayed there for 7 weeks (late June to mid-August, 1957).
"Teddy Bear" was written by Kal Mann and Bernie Lowe while "Loving you" was written by prolific songwriting team of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
The soundtrack from Elvis Presley's new (second)movie, Loving You, had also become a top selling album for 11 weeks (July - September 1957).
Lyrics:
Baby let me be,
Your lovin teddy bear
Put a chain around my neck,
And lead me anywhere
Oh let me be
Your teddy bear.
I don't wanna be a tiger
Cause tigers play too rough
I don't wanna be a lion
Cause lions aint the kind
You love enough.
Just wanna be, your teddy bear
Put a chain around my neck
And lead me anywhere
Oh let me be
Your teddy bear.
Baby let me be, around you every night
Run your fingers through my hair,
And cuddle me real tight
Oh let me be
Your teddy bear
Lyrics:
I will spend my whole life through
Loving you, just loving you
Winter, summer, springtime too
Loving you, loving you
Makes no difference where I go or what I may do
You know that I'll always be loving you, just you
And if I'm seen with someone new
Don't be blue, don't you be blue
I'll be faithful, I'll be true
Always true, true to you
There is only one for me and you know who
You know that I'll always be loving you
After a short-break (of 5 weeks by Pat Boone's Love Letter In The Sand) at the top of the US charts, King Elvis returned to the throne with a double-A side single, "Teddy Bear" and "Loving You" and stayed there for 7 weeks (late June to mid-August, 1957).
"Teddy Bear" was written by Kal Mann and Bernie Lowe while "Loving you" was written by prolific songwriting team of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
The soundtrack from Elvis Presley's new (second)movie, Loving You, had also become a top selling album for 11 weeks (July - September 1957).
Lyrics:
Baby let me be,
Your lovin teddy bear
Put a chain around my neck,
And lead me anywhere
Oh let me be
Your teddy bear.
I don't wanna be a tiger
Cause tigers play too rough
I don't wanna be a lion
Cause lions aint the kind
You love enough.
Just wanna be, your teddy bear
Put a chain around my neck
And lead me anywhere
Oh let me be
Your teddy bear.
Baby let me be, around you every night
Run your fingers through my hair,
And cuddle me real tight
Oh let me be
Your teddy bear
Lyrics:
I will spend my whole life through
Loving you, just loving you
Winter, summer, springtime too
Loving you, loving you
Makes no difference where I go or what I may do
You know that I'll always be loving you, just you
And if I'm seen with someone new
Don't be blue, don't you be blue
I'll be faithful, I'll be true
Always true, true to you
There is only one for me and you know who
You know that I'll always be loving you
50s - Love Letter In The Sand (Pat Boone)
Love Letter In The Sand
"Love Letters in the Sand" is a popular song first published in 1931. The music was written by J. Fred Coots and the lyrics by Nick Kenny and Charles Kenny.
Ted Black's orchestra had the first major hit. It was a winner for Ruby Valee, Bing Crosby and Vince Hill, among other. But Pat Boone's cover became a major hit in the chart for 5 weeks from May to June 1957, displacing Elvis' "All Shook Up".
Lyrics:
On a day like today
We passed the time away
Writing love letters in the sand
How you laughed when I cried
Each time I saw the tide
Take our love letters from the sand
CHORUS
You made a vow that you would ever be true
But somehow that vow meant nothing to you
Now my broken heart aches
With every wave that breaks
Over love letters in the sand
"Love Letters in the Sand" is a popular song first published in 1931. The music was written by J. Fred Coots and the lyrics by Nick Kenny and Charles Kenny.
Ted Black's orchestra had the first major hit. It was a winner for Ruby Valee, Bing Crosby and Vince Hill, among other. But Pat Boone's cover became a major hit in the chart for 5 weeks from May to June 1957, displacing Elvis' "All Shook Up".
Lyrics:
On a day like today
We passed the time away
Writing love letters in the sand
How you laughed when I cried
Each time I saw the tide
Take our love letters from the sand
CHORUS
You made a vow that you would ever be true
But somehow that vow meant nothing to you
Now my broken heart aches
With every wave that breaks
Over love letters in the sand
50s - All Shook Up (Elvis)
All Shook Up
"All Shook Up", Elvis' next hit song after "Love Me Tender", topped the Billboard chart again for 5 weeks from mid April to mid May 1957. The song did better in UK staying at the top of the singles chart for 9 weeks from June to August.
The song was composed by Otis Blackwell and again Elvis was given the credit as a co-writer.
Noteworthy artistes who had covered the song include The Jeff Beck Group (1969), Suzy Quatro (mid-70s), Billy Joel (1991), Paul McCartney (1999) and Cliff Richard (2001).
Lyrics:
A well I bless my soul
What's wrong with me?
Im itching like a man on a fuzzy tree
My friends say Im actin wild as a bug
Im in love
Im all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
My hands are shaky and my knees are weak
I can't seem to stand on my own two feet
Who do you thank when you have such luck?
Im in love
Im all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
Please don't ask me what's on my mind
Im a little mixed up, but Im feelin fine
When Im near that girl that I love best
My heart beats so it scares me to death!
She touched my hand what a chill I got
Her lips are like a vulcano that's hot
Im proud to say she's my buttercup
Im in love
Im all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
My tongue get tied when I try to speak
My insides shake like a leaf on a tree
There's only one cure for this body of mine
That's to have the girl that I love so fine
"All Shook Up", Elvis' next hit song after "Love Me Tender", topped the Billboard chart again for 5 weeks from mid April to mid May 1957. The song did better in UK staying at the top of the singles chart for 9 weeks from June to August.
The song was composed by Otis Blackwell and again Elvis was given the credit as a co-writer.
Noteworthy artistes who had covered the song include The Jeff Beck Group (1969), Suzy Quatro (mid-70s), Billy Joel (1991), Paul McCartney (1999) and Cliff Richard (2001).
Lyrics:
A well I bless my soul
What's wrong with me?
Im itching like a man on a fuzzy tree
My friends say Im actin wild as a bug
Im in love
Im all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
My hands are shaky and my knees are weak
I can't seem to stand on my own two feet
Who do you thank when you have such luck?
Im in love
Im all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
Please don't ask me what's on my mind
Im a little mixed up, but Im feelin fine
When Im near that girl that I love best
My heart beats so it scares me to death!
She touched my hand what a chill I got
Her lips are like a vulcano that's hot
Im proud to say she's my buttercup
Im in love
Im all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!
My tongue get tied when I try to speak
My insides shake like a leaf on a tree
There's only one cure for this body of mine
That's to have the girl that I love so fine
Tuesday, 8 December 2009
50s - Young Love (Sonny James / Tab Hunter)
Young Love
"Young Love", a popular song in early 1957, was written by Ric Cartey and Carole Joyner.
The original version was recorded by Ric Cartey With The Jiva-Tones in November, 1956 but Cartey's version never charted. The better-known versions were by Sonny James and Tab Hunter.
The recording by American country singer Sonny James peaked the US Billboard #1 chart for 8 weeks from mid-January to mid-March.
But in UK, it was fellow screen heart-throb Tab Hunter who brought the song to the #1 in the single charts from February to April for 7 weeks. Despite his success, music critics maintained that the disc was a triumph of image, personality and screen exposure over his vocal ability.
Other artistes who have had some success with this song are: The Crewcuts (1957), Lesley Gore (1966), Mary Hopkin (1969) and teen heart-throb (then) Donny Osmond who made it a transatlantic hits in 1973.
Lyrics:
They say for every boy and girl,
There's just one love in this old world,
And I, I kn-ow, I, I, I've found mine.
The heavenly touch of your embrace,
Tells me no one will take your place,
A, A, A, A, ever in my heart.
Chorus:
Young love, first love,
Filled with true devotion,
Young love, our love,
We share with deep emotion.
Just one kiss from your sweet lips,
Will tell me that your love is real,
And I, I, I can fe-el that it's true.
We will vow to one another,
There will never be another,
Lo-ve for you, or for me.
"Young Love", a popular song in early 1957, was written by Ric Cartey and Carole Joyner.
The original version was recorded by Ric Cartey With The Jiva-Tones in November, 1956 but Cartey's version never charted. The better-known versions were by Sonny James and Tab Hunter.
The recording by American country singer Sonny James peaked the US Billboard #1 chart for 8 weeks from mid-January to mid-March.
But in UK, it was fellow screen heart-throb Tab Hunter who brought the song to the #1 in the single charts from February to April for 7 weeks. Despite his success, music critics maintained that the disc was a triumph of image, personality and screen exposure over his vocal ability.
Other artistes who have had some success with this song are: The Crewcuts (1957), Lesley Gore (1966), Mary Hopkin (1969) and teen heart-throb (then) Donny Osmond who made it a transatlantic hits in 1973.
Lyrics:
They say for every boy and girl,
There's just one love in this old world,
And I, I kn-ow, I, I, I've found mine.
The heavenly touch of your embrace,
Tells me no one will take your place,
A, A, A, A, ever in my heart.
Chorus:
Young love, first love,
Filled with true devotion,
Young love, our love,
We share with deep emotion.
Just one kiss from your sweet lips,
Will tell me that your love is real,
And I, I, I can fe-el that it's true.
We will vow to one another,
There will never be another,
Lo-ve for you, or for me.
Monday, 7 December 2009
50s - Just Walkin' In The Rain (Johnnie Ray)
Just Walkin' In The Rain
While Guy Mitchel's "Singing The Blues" was top-charting in America during the Christmas month, fellow American Johnnie Ray was holding the #1 spot for 7 consecutive weeks (November - December 1956) in UK with his version of "Just Walkin' In The Rain."
The song was written in 1952 by Johnny Brag and Robert Riley, two prisoners at Tennessee State Prison in Nashville.
Bragg and his band, The Prisonaires, later recorded the song for Sun Records and it became a minor hit on the R&B chart in 1953. However, it was Johnnie Ray who took the song to #1 in UK and #2 on US Billboard chart in 1956.
Lyrics:
Just walking in the rain
Getting soaking wet
Torturing my heart by trying to forget
Just walking in the rain
So alone and blue
All because my heart still remembers you
People come to their windows,
They always stare at me
Shaking their heads in sorrow
Saying, Who can that fool be
Just walking in the rain
Thinking how we met
Knowing things have changed
Somehow I can't forget.
While Guy Mitchel's "Singing The Blues" was top-charting in America during the Christmas month, fellow American Johnnie Ray was holding the #1 spot for 7 consecutive weeks (November - December 1956) in UK with his version of "Just Walkin' In The Rain."
The song was written in 1952 by Johnny Brag and Robert Riley, two prisoners at Tennessee State Prison in Nashville.
Bragg and his band, The Prisonaires, later recorded the song for Sun Records and it became a minor hit on the R&B chart in 1953. However, it was Johnnie Ray who took the song to #1 in UK and #2 on US Billboard chart in 1956.
Lyrics:
Just walking in the rain
Getting soaking wet
Torturing my heart by trying to forget
Just walking in the rain
So alone and blue
All because my heart still remembers you
People come to their windows,
They always stare at me
Shaking their heads in sorrow
Saying, Who can that fool be
Just walking in the rain
Thinking how we met
Knowing things have changed
Somehow I can't forget.
50s - Singing The Blues (Guy Mitchell)
Singing The Blues
With Rock 'n' Roll and Elvis Presley holding court in the America music scene, who would have thought that Guy Mitchell with his swinging "Singing The Blues" could displace King Elvis from his throne (temporarily) in the xmas month of 1956.
This popular song, written by Melvin Endsley, spent 8 weeks in #1 on the Billboard chart from end November 1956 to mid January 1957. In the UK Singles chart, South London rock 'n' roller Tommy Steele's version made #1 for one week in January 1957; it was sandwiched by Guy Mitchell's version for two weeks at the #1 spot.
Other notable cover versions include recordings by Marty Robbins, Bill Haley & His Comets (1960), Dean Martin (1963), Marie Osmond (1975), Dave Edmunds (1980).
"Singing the Blues" was also performed live by Beatle Paul McCartney on the MTV show Unplugged in 1991.
Lyrics:
Well, I never felt more like singin' the blues
'Cause I never thought that I'd ever lose
Your love dear, why'd you do me this way
Well, I never felt more like cryin' all night
'Cause everythin's wrong, and nothin' ain't right
Without you, you got me singin' the blues
The moon and stars no longer shine
The dream is gone I thought was mine
There's nothin' left for me to do
But cry-y-y-y over you (cry over you)
Well, I never felt more like runnin' away
But why should I go 'cause I couldn't stay
Without you, you got me singin' the blues
[Instrumental and whistling]
Well, I never felt more like singin' the blues
'Cause I never thought that I'd ever lose
Your love dear, why'd you do me this way
Well, I never felt more like cryin' all night
'Cause everythin's wrong, and nothin' ain't right
Without you, you got me singin' the blues
Oh, the moon and stars no longer shine
The dream is gone I thought was mine
There's nothin' left for me to do
But cry-y-y-y over you (cry over you)
Well, I never felt more like runnin' away
But why should I go 'cause I couldn't stay
Without you, you got me singin' the blues
With Rock 'n' Roll and Elvis Presley holding court in the America music scene, who would have thought that Guy Mitchell with his swinging "Singing The Blues" could displace King Elvis from his throne (temporarily) in the xmas month of 1956.
This popular song, written by Melvin Endsley, spent 8 weeks in #1 on the Billboard chart from end November 1956 to mid January 1957. In the UK Singles chart, South London rock 'n' roller Tommy Steele's version made #1 for one week in January 1957; it was sandwiched by Guy Mitchell's version for two weeks at the #1 spot.
Other notable cover versions include recordings by Marty Robbins, Bill Haley & His Comets (1960), Dean Martin (1963), Marie Osmond (1975), Dave Edmunds (1980).
"Singing the Blues" was also performed live by Beatle Paul McCartney on the MTV show Unplugged in 1991.
Lyrics:
Well, I never felt more like singin' the blues
'Cause I never thought that I'd ever lose
Your love dear, why'd you do me this way
Well, I never felt more like cryin' all night
'Cause everythin's wrong, and nothin' ain't right
Without you, you got me singin' the blues
The moon and stars no longer shine
The dream is gone I thought was mine
There's nothin' left for me to do
But cry-y-y-y over you (cry over you)
Well, I never felt more like runnin' away
But why should I go 'cause I couldn't stay
Without you, you got me singin' the blues
[Instrumental and whistling]
Well, I never felt more like singin' the blues
'Cause I never thought that I'd ever lose
Your love dear, why'd you do me this way
Well, I never felt more like cryin' all night
'Cause everythin's wrong, and nothin' ain't right
Without you, you got me singin' the blues
Oh, the moon and stars no longer shine
The dream is gone I thought was mine
There's nothin' left for me to do
But cry-y-y-y over you (cry over you)
Well, I never felt more like runnin' away
But why should I go 'cause I couldn't stay
Without you, you got me singin' the blues
Sunday, 6 December 2009
50s - Love Me Tender (Elvis)
Love Me Tender
Elvis Presley's "Love Me Tender" topped the Billboard Chart continuously for 5 weeks (October - November 1956), but could only hit #5 on the charts in UK.
It was also an achievement as "Love Me Tender" succeeded another Presley single, "Don't Be Cruel/Hound Dog" at #1. This occurrence marked an important event in Billboard history as Elvis held the record then as the longest consecutive stay (16 weeks) at #1 by a single artist.
"Love Me Tender" is adapted from an 1861 tune of "Aura Lee" (or "Aura Lea"), a sentimental Civil War ballad with music by George R. Poulton and words by W.W. Fosdick. Even though Elvis never wrote his own song but he often changed the arrangment and lyrics of the original song to the point that it was hardly recognisable. The song is credited to Elvis and Vera Matson, although the principal writer of the new lyrics was Ken Darby (Matson's husband).
Elvis first introduced this song on the The Ed Sullivan Show in September 1956, shortly before the single's release and about a month before Elvis' debut movie, Love Me Tender, was released. On the following days after the show, RCA was beseiged with 1 million advance orders for the song, making it a gold record before the disc was on sale.
This popular song was coved by many famous artistes; some of them who did were: Richard Chamberlain (1962), The Platters, Connie Francis, Engelbert Humperdinck, Paul Anka, The Lettermen (1962), Percy Sledge (1967), Linda Ronstadt (1978), Kenny Rogers (1996), etc.
Elvis Presley's "Love Me Tender" topped the Billboard Chart continuously for 5 weeks (October - November 1956), but could only hit #5 on the charts in UK.
It was also an achievement as "Love Me Tender" succeeded another Presley single, "Don't Be Cruel/Hound Dog" at #1. This occurrence marked an important event in Billboard history as Elvis held the record then as the longest consecutive stay (16 weeks) at #1 by a single artist.
"Love Me Tender" is adapted from an 1861 tune of "Aura Lee" (or "Aura Lea"), a sentimental Civil War ballad with music by George R. Poulton and words by W.W. Fosdick. Even though Elvis never wrote his own song but he often changed the arrangment and lyrics of the original song to the point that it was hardly recognisable. The song is credited to Elvis and Vera Matson, although the principal writer of the new lyrics was Ken Darby (Matson's husband).
Elvis first introduced this song on the The Ed Sullivan Show in September 1956, shortly before the single's release and about a month before Elvis' debut movie, Love Me Tender, was released. On the following days after the show, RCA was beseiged with 1 million advance orders for the song, making it a gold record before the disc was on sale.
This popular song was coved by many famous artistes; some of them who did were: Richard Chamberlain (1962), The Platters, Connie Francis, Engelbert Humperdinck, Paul Anka, The Lettermen (1962), Percy Sledge (1967), Linda Ronstadt (1978), Kenny Rogers (1996), etc.
50s - Don't Be Cruel/Hound Dog (Elvis)
Don't Be Cruel / Hound Dog
After topping the US Billboard Chart with his "Heartbreak Hotel" (April - June 1956), Elvis Presley's second #1 hit, "I Want You, I Need You, I Love You" could only hold the top post for 1 week in July. But his next (double A-side) single, "Don't Be Cruel" and "Hound Dog" was a monster hit.
The record hit #1 on the Billboard chart starting on week 2 August and remained in the top position for 11 consecutive weeks!
"Don't Be Cruel" is a song by Otis Blackwell; Elvis was given co-songwriting credit after he changed the music and lyrics to Otis's demo.
"Hound Dog" is a twelve-bar blues written by influential US songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Originally recorded by Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton in 1952 and many other artistes in mid-50s, but Elvis' version was the most popular.
After topping the US Billboard Chart with his "Heartbreak Hotel" (April - June 1956), Elvis Presley's second #1 hit, "I Want You, I Need You, I Love You" could only hold the top post for 1 week in July. But his next (double A-side) single, "Don't Be Cruel" and "Hound Dog" was a monster hit.
The record hit #1 on the Billboard chart starting on week 2 August and remained in the top position for 11 consecutive weeks!
"Don't Be Cruel" is a song by Otis Blackwell; Elvis was given co-songwriting credit after he changed the music and lyrics to Otis's demo.
"Hound Dog" is a twelve-bar blues written by influential US songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Originally recorded by Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton in 1952 and many other artistes in mid-50s, but Elvis' version was the most popular.
Saturday, 5 December 2009
50s - Que Sera, Sera (Doris Day)
Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)
"Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)" is a popular song written by the Jay Livingston and Ray Evans in 1956. It was made popular by the darling of Hollywood then, Doris Day. The song was a hit in both USA (#2 on the Billboard charts) and UK (6 weeks at # 1 from August to September 1956). It has become Doris' signature song since.
The song was featured in an Alfred Hitchcock's thriller, The Man Who Knew too Much, with Doris Day and James Stewart in the lead roles. It was naturally chosen as the theme song for her TV situation comedy, The Doris Day Show, from 1968 - 1973.
Among the many artistes who have covered the song are: Connie Francis (1963), Mary Hopkin (1969) and Shaking Stevens (1982).
If you are a football fan, you probably have heard the chorus of this song too. It is regularly sung at English matches when a team is progressing to the next round of a competition that will ultimately lead them to Wembly Stadium. The lyrics has changed to "Que Sera, Sera, whatever will be, will be, we're going to Wembley, Que Sera Sera".
"Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)" is a popular song written by the Jay Livingston and Ray Evans in 1956. It was made popular by the darling of Hollywood then, Doris Day. The song was a hit in both USA (#2 on the Billboard charts) and UK (6 weeks at # 1 from August to September 1956). It has become Doris' signature song since.
The song was featured in an Alfred Hitchcock's thriller, The Man Who Knew too Much, with Doris Day and James Stewart in the lead roles. It was naturally chosen as the theme song for her TV situation comedy, The Doris Day Show, from 1968 - 1973.
Among the many artistes who have covered the song are: Connie Francis (1963), Mary Hopkin (1969) and Shaking Stevens (1982).
If you are a football fan, you probably have heard the chorus of this song too. It is regularly sung at English matches when a team is progressing to the next round of a competition that will ultimately lead them to Wembly Stadium. The lyrics has changed to "Que Sera, Sera, whatever will be, will be, we're going to Wembley, Que Sera Sera".
50s - Why Do Fools Fall In Love? (The Teenagers)
Why do Fools Fall In Love?
.
"Why Do Fools Fall in Love" is a song that was originally a hit for early New York City-based rock 'n' roll group The Teenagers fronted by 13-year old Frankie Lymon in 1956. It reached # 1 on the R&B chart, # 6 on Billboard's Pop Singles chart, and # 1 on the UK Singles Chart for 3 weeks (July - August 1956).
The song helped to make Frankie Lymon a household name and would make him one of the pioneers of Rock 'n' Roll.
The song has been covered by artistes like The Beach Boys (1964), Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Joni Mitchell and Diana Ross (1981), among others.
In Malaysia, it was Diana Ross' version that made it a popular hit here.
.
"Why Do Fools Fall in Love" is a song that was originally a hit for early New York City-based rock 'n' roll group The Teenagers fronted by 13-year old Frankie Lymon in 1956. It reached # 1 on the R&B chart, # 6 on Billboard's Pop Singles chart, and # 1 on the UK Singles Chart for 3 weeks (July - August 1956).
The song helped to make Frankie Lymon a household name and would make him one of the pioneers of Rock 'n' Roll.
The song has been covered by artistes like The Beach Boys (1964), Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Joni Mitchell and Diana Ross (1981), among others.
In Malaysia, it was Diana Ross' version that made it a popular hit here.
50s - Wayward Wind (Gogi Grant)
Wayward WindWhen Elvis Presley's "Heartbreak Hotel" was hording the US single chart for 6 weeks from April to June 1956, it was up to a country song "Wayward Wind" sung by Gogi Grant to stop the streak from the "Hillbilly Cat" (or Mao Wong as known in Asia) from Tennessee.
"Wayward Wind", written by Stan Lebowsky and Herb Newman, topped the US single chart for 5 weeks (June - July 1956).
Several artistes had also recorded the song, notably Sam Cooke (1960),Patsy Cline (1961), Frank Ifield (1963), Connie Francis (1967) and Anne Murray (1993). Frank's version reach the # 1 spot in the UK charts and made it a big hit here in the Asian regions too.
Friday, 4 December 2009
50s - Heartbreak Hotel (Elvis Presley)
Heartbreak Hotel"Heartbreak Hotel" was Elvis Presley very first single for his new label, RCA. Prior to this, Elvis had released five discs on the Sun label.
Reactions to his brash new style of singing then had been mixed, but one thing for sure, he was big hit with the American teenagers.
"Heartbeat Hotel", co-written by Elvis with Mae Boren Aston and Thomas Durden, occupied #1 in US Pop Chart for 6 weeks (April - June 1956) and his first LP "Elvis Presley" topped the US Album Chart for 10 weeks (April - June) too. It reached only #2 in the UK pop single chart.
Many artistes had covered the song after Elvis. Among them were: Connie Francis (1959), Chet Atkins (1963), Adam Faith (1965), The Animals (1967), Merle Haggard (1977). And Willie Nelson and Leon Russel had a no. 1 cover version in 1979 on the country charts.
Thursday, 3 December 2009
50s - Little Richard
Little Richard
Little Richard (nee Richard Wayne Penniman) is a Rock 'n' Roll legend whose influence can be heard in the work of countless artistes like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
In the mid- and late 50s, his no-holds-barred vocal style, explosive music, charismatic persona and untamed stage show shocked the older generation and earned him hordes of teenage fans.
His frantically charged piano playing and raspy, shouted vocals on such classics as "Tutti Frutti", "Long Tall Sally" and "Good Golly, Miss Molly" defined the dynamic sound of rock and roll.
"Tutti Frutti", his first Rock 'n' Roll classic was recorded in September 1955. It rocketted into the R&B Top 5 and entered the US Pop chart too. "Long Tall Sally" proved even more successful; it topped the R&B chart and was his first US Top 10 hit. Both "Tutti Frutti" and "Long Tall Sally" entered the UK Top 3 too.
This was followed by "The Girl Can't Help It", "She Got It", "Lucille", "Keep A knockin'", "Jenny Jenny" , "Good Golly Miss Molly", and "Baby Face", etc - all major transalantic hits.
He was among the first artiste inducted in the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. He was also presented with a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 1993 and a similar award from the R&B Foundation a year later.
Little Richard (nee Richard Wayne Penniman) is a Rock 'n' Roll legend whose influence can be heard in the work of countless artistes like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
In the mid- and late 50s, his no-holds-barred vocal style, explosive music, charismatic persona and untamed stage show shocked the older generation and earned him hordes of teenage fans.
His frantically charged piano playing and raspy, shouted vocals on such classics as "Tutti Frutti", "Long Tall Sally" and "Good Golly, Miss Molly" defined the dynamic sound of rock and roll.
"Tutti Frutti", his first Rock 'n' Roll classic was recorded in September 1955. It rocketted into the R&B Top 5 and entered the US Pop chart too. "Long Tall Sally" proved even more successful; it topped the R&B chart and was his first US Top 10 hit. Both "Tutti Frutti" and "Long Tall Sally" entered the UK Top 3 too.
This was followed by "The Girl Can't Help It", "She Got It", "Lucille", "Keep A knockin'", "Jenny Jenny" , "Good Golly Miss Molly", and "Baby Face", etc - all major transalantic hits.
He was among the first artiste inducted in the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. He was also presented with a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 1993 and a similar award from the R&B Foundation a year later.
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
50s - The Poor People Of Paris
The Poor People Of Paris
You might have heard this music during some grand ballroom scenes in movies.
"The Poor People Of Paris" was adapted by Jack Lawrence in 1954 from the French language song "La goualante du pauvre Jean" ("The Ballad of Poor John") .
A recording of the song by Les Baxter's orchestra was a # 1 hit on the Billboard Singles Charts in the US in 1956 for 6 weeks (Mar - Apr).
In the same year, the version by accomplished and versatile pianist Winifred Atwell was number one in the UK Singles Chart from April 13 to 27.
Other cover versions include Lawrence Welk and Chet Atkins. Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney recorded a version containing the seldom-heard Jack Lawrence lyrics.
You might have heard this music during some grand ballroom scenes in movies.
"The Poor People Of Paris" was adapted by Jack Lawrence in 1954 from the French language song "La goualante du pauvre Jean" ("The Ballad of Poor John") .
A recording of the song by Les Baxter's orchestra was a # 1 hit on the Billboard Singles Charts in the US in 1956 for 6 weeks (Mar - Apr).
In the same year, the version by accomplished and versatile pianist Winifred Atwell was number one in the UK Singles Chart from April 13 to 27.
Other cover versions include Lawrence Welk and Chet Atkins. Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney recorded a version containing the seldom-heard Jack Lawrence lyrics.
50s - Memories Are Made Of This (Dean Martin)
Memories Are Made Of This
"Memories Are Made of This" is a popular song written by Terry Gilkyson, Richard Dehr, and Frank Miller in 1955.
The most popular version of the song was recorded by singer/actor Dean Martin. It reached #1 on the US Billboard chart for 6 weeks (Jan - Feb) in 1956, and became his biggest hit. He was backed by The Easy Riders (who consisted of Gilkyson, Dehr, and Miller), who wrote it.
Among the many other artistes who recorded this song are: Petula Clark (1956), Everly Brothers (1960), Ray Conniff (1961), Jim Reeves (1963), Paul Anka (1963), Frank Sinastra (1964), Little Richard (1964), The Drifters (1966), Johnny Cash (1996), etc.
Lyrics:
(Sweet, sweet memories you gave-a me
you can't beat the memeories you gave-a me)
Take one fresh and tender kiss
Add one stolen night of bliss
One girl, one boy
Some grief, some joy
Memories are made of this
Don't forget a small moonbeam
Fold in lightly with a dream
Your lips and mine
Two sips of wine
Memories are made of this
Then add the wedding bells
One house where lovers dwell
Three little kids for flavor
Stir carefully through the days
See how the flavor stays
These are the dreams you will savor
With His blessings from above
Serve it generously with love
One man, one wife
One love through life
Memories are made of this
Memories are made of this
"Memories Are Made of This" is a popular song written by Terry Gilkyson, Richard Dehr, and Frank Miller in 1955.
The most popular version of the song was recorded by singer/actor Dean Martin. It reached #1 on the US Billboard chart for 6 weeks (Jan - Feb) in 1956, and became his biggest hit. He was backed by The Easy Riders (who consisted of Gilkyson, Dehr, and Miller), who wrote it.
Among the many other artistes who recorded this song are: Petula Clark (1956), Everly Brothers (1960), Ray Conniff (1961), Jim Reeves (1963), Paul Anka (1963), Frank Sinastra (1964), Little Richard (1964), The Drifters (1966), Johnny Cash (1996), etc.
Lyrics:
(Sweet, sweet memories you gave-a me
you can't beat the memeories you gave-a me)
Take one fresh and tender kiss
Add one stolen night of bliss
One girl, one boy
Some grief, some joy
Memories are made of this
Don't forget a small moonbeam
Fold in lightly with a dream
Your lips and mine
Two sips of wine
Memories are made of this
Then add the wedding bells
One house where lovers dwell
Three little kids for flavor
Stir carefully through the days
See how the flavor stays
These are the dreams you will savor
With His blessings from above
Serve it generously with love
One man, one wife
One love through life
Memories are made of this
Memories are made of this
Tuesday, 1 December 2009
50s - The Platters
The Platters
The Platters were a popular vocal group formed in 1953 in Los Angeles, California during the early Rock 'n' Roll era.
After the signing with music entrepreneur and songwriter Buck Ram, the act went through several personnel changes before hitting the charts, with the most successful incarnation comprising lead tenor Tony Williams, David Lynch, Paul Robi, Herb Reed and Zola Taylor.
Buck Ram had The Platters recorded his composition "Only You" during their first session with Mercury Records and released it in the summer of 1955, the breakthrough year for the group. The song became the group's first Top Ten hit on the pop charts, and topped the R&B charts for seven weeks.
The follow-up hit, "The Great Pretender", with lyrics written by Buck Ram, exceeded the success of their debut. It became the Platters' first national #1 hit. "The Great Pretender" was also the act's biggest R&B hit, with an 11-week run at the top of the chart.
Other major hits for the Platters were "The Magic Touch", "My Prayer", "You'll Never Know" in 1956; "I'm Sorry" in 1957; "Twilight Time" & "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" in 1958; and "Enchanted" in 1959. The Platters' last Top Ten single was 1960's "Harbour Lights".
In 1961, Tony Williams left the group and went solo. He was replaced by Sonny Turner as the lead singer. But Mercury records continued to release old William-led singles through 1964.
Off the charts from 1961 to 1966, the Platters changed line-up in 1962, with Sandra Dawn replacing the female lead singer Zola Tayler and Nate Nelson taking Robi's spot.
Williams and Ram battled in court during the 70s over the rights to the name Platters. Ram won the case. In 1989, however, the rights were returned to Robi, and in 1995 Robi's widow won back from Ram the written and publishing interests to much of the Platters' catalogue. There were more legal battles after this.
In the meantime, more personel changes were in progress. And ex-members of The Platters began to perform as splinter groups of the Platters.
The Platters were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.
The Platters were a popular vocal group formed in 1953 in Los Angeles, California during the early Rock 'n' Roll era.
After the signing with music entrepreneur and songwriter Buck Ram, the act went through several personnel changes before hitting the charts, with the most successful incarnation comprising lead tenor Tony Williams, David Lynch, Paul Robi, Herb Reed and Zola Taylor.
Buck Ram had The Platters recorded his composition "Only You" during their first session with Mercury Records and released it in the summer of 1955, the breakthrough year for the group. The song became the group's first Top Ten hit on the pop charts, and topped the R&B charts for seven weeks.
The follow-up hit, "The Great Pretender", with lyrics written by Buck Ram, exceeded the success of their debut. It became the Platters' first national #1 hit. "The Great Pretender" was also the act's biggest R&B hit, with an 11-week run at the top of the chart.
Other major hits for the Platters were "The Magic Touch", "My Prayer", "You'll Never Know" in 1956; "I'm Sorry" in 1957; "Twilight Time" & "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" in 1958; and "Enchanted" in 1959. The Platters' last Top Ten single was 1960's "Harbour Lights".
In 1961, Tony Williams left the group and went solo. He was replaced by Sonny Turner as the lead singer. But Mercury records continued to release old William-led singles through 1964.
Off the charts from 1961 to 1966, the Platters changed line-up in 1962, with Sandra Dawn replacing the female lead singer Zola Tayler and Nate Nelson taking Robi's spot.
Williams and Ram battled in court during the 70s over the rights to the name Platters. Ram won the case. In 1989, however, the rights were returned to Robi, and in 1995 Robi's widow won back from Ram the written and publishing interests to much of the Platters' catalogue. There were more legal battles after this.
In the meantime, more personel changes were in progress. And ex-members of The Platters began to perform as splinter groups of the Platters.
The Platters were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.
50s - Chuck Berry
Chuck Berry
"If you were going to give Rock 'n' Roll another name, you might as well call it Chuck Berry" - this was the famous quote by John Lennon paying tribute to the legendary Rock 'n' Roll pioneer, Chuck Berry.
Although it is impossible to pinpoint the first Rock 'n' Roll record, you can bet that Chuck Berry was definitely the first successful guitar-playing Rock 'n' Roll singer/songwriter.
In May 1955, Berry recorded "Maybellene", an adaption of a country and western song "Ida Red". " Maybellene" went on to sell over a million copies, reached #1 on Billboard's Rhythm and Blues chart and earned him the Best New R&B Artiste award from Billboard that year.
Berry was one of the era's outstanding entertainers, starring in many Rock 'n' Roll shows, performing his distinctive "duck walk" in low budget movies.
This prolific and profitable period continued with several hits like, "Roll Over Beethoven", "School Days", "Rock and Roll Music", "Sweet Little Sixteen" and "Johnny B. Goode". All these great songs had been recorded by countless artistes, including The Beatles and The Rolling Stone, since.
Berry's record sale were on the decline when he was arrested in late 1959 for taking a 14-year old girl across the Mexican border. He was freed in late 1963 to find his music back in fashion.
He continued to have some chart success with hits like "No Particular Place To Go" in 1964 and "My Ding-A-Ling", his biggest seller in 1972.
Despite his drug, tax evasion problems and sex scandals, history will remember him as one of the most innovative, influential, important and exciting artistes in Rock 'n' Roll.
"If you were going to give Rock 'n' Roll another name, you might as well call it Chuck Berry" - this was the famous quote by John Lennon paying tribute to the legendary Rock 'n' Roll pioneer, Chuck Berry.
Although it is impossible to pinpoint the first Rock 'n' Roll record, you can bet that Chuck Berry was definitely the first successful guitar-playing Rock 'n' Roll singer/songwriter.
In May 1955, Berry recorded "Maybellene", an adaption of a country and western song "Ida Red". " Maybellene" went on to sell over a million copies, reached #1 on Billboard's Rhythm and Blues chart and earned him the Best New R&B Artiste award from Billboard that year.
Berry was one of the era's outstanding entertainers, starring in many Rock 'n' Roll shows, performing his distinctive "duck walk" in low budget movies.
This prolific and profitable period continued with several hits like, "Roll Over Beethoven", "School Days", "Rock and Roll Music", "Sweet Little Sixteen" and "Johnny B. Goode". All these great songs had been recorded by countless artistes, including The Beatles and The Rolling Stone, since.
Berry's record sale were on the decline when he was arrested in late 1959 for taking a 14-year old girl across the Mexican border. He was freed in late 1963 to find his music back in fashion.
He continued to have some chart success with hits like "No Particular Place To Go" in 1964 and "My Ding-A-Ling", his biggest seller in 1972.
Despite his drug, tax evasion problems and sex scandals, history will remember him as one of the most innovative, influential, important and exciting artistes in Rock 'n' Roll.
50s - 16 Tons (Tennessee Ernie Ford)
16 Tons
You load 16 tons and what do you get? A hit for Tennessee Ernie Ford!
It was written and first recorded in 1946 by Country & Western guitarist Merle Travis, who based it on his father's experiences as a coal-miner in Kentucky.
But it was Ford's version that hit the # 1 spot in the US Single Charts for 6 consecutive weeks (Nov - Dec) in 1955 and topped the UK Charts for 4 weeks (Jan - Feb) in 1956.
Lyrics:
Some people say a man is made outta mud
A poor man's made outta muscle and blood
Muscle and blood and skin and bones
A mind that's a-weak and a back that's strong
chorus:
You load sixteen tons, what do you get
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter don't you call me 'cause I can't go
I owe my soul to the company store
I was born one mornin' when the sun didn't shine
I picked up my shovel and I walked to the mine
I loaded sixteen tons of number nine coal
And the straw boss said "Well, a-bless my soul"
I was born one mornin', it was drizzlin rain
Fightin' and Trobule was my middle name
I was raised in the canebrake by an ol' mama lion
Ain't no-a high-toned woman make me walk the line
If you see me comin', better step aside
A lotta men didn't, a lotta men died
One fist of iron, the other of steel
If the right one don't a-get you then the left one will.
The song depicts a hand-to-mouth existence of the coalminers who always fell into debt and were forced to pay the inflated prices charged at the only local store, belonging the mine owners. (re: I owe my soul to the company store.)
This song has been covered by wide variety of artistes including Frankie Laine (1955), The Platters (1957), Tom Jones (1967), Johnny Cash (1987) and Eric Burdon (1990), etc..
You load 16 tons and what do you get? A hit for Tennessee Ernie Ford!
It was written and first recorded in 1946 by Country & Western guitarist Merle Travis, who based it on his father's experiences as a coal-miner in Kentucky.
But it was Ford's version that hit the # 1 spot in the US Single Charts for 6 consecutive weeks (Nov - Dec) in 1955 and topped the UK Charts for 4 weeks (Jan - Feb) in 1956.
Lyrics:
Some people say a man is made outta mud
A poor man's made outta muscle and blood
Muscle and blood and skin and bones
A mind that's a-weak and a back that's strong
chorus:
You load sixteen tons, what do you get
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter don't you call me 'cause I can't go
I owe my soul to the company store
I was born one mornin' when the sun didn't shine
I picked up my shovel and I walked to the mine
I loaded sixteen tons of number nine coal
And the straw boss said "Well, a-bless my soul"
I was born one mornin', it was drizzlin rain
Fightin' and Trobule was my middle name
I was raised in the canebrake by an ol' mama lion
Ain't no-a high-toned woman make me walk the line
If you see me comin', better step aside
A lotta men didn't, a lotta men died
One fist of iron, the other of steel
If the right one don't a-get you then the left one will.
The song depicts a hand-to-mouth existence of the coalminers who always fell into debt and were forced to pay the inflated prices charged at the only local store, belonging the mine owners. (re: I owe my soul to the company store.)
This song has been covered by wide variety of artistes including Frankie Laine (1955), The Platters (1957), Tom Jones (1967), Johnny Cash (1987) and Eric Burdon (1990), etc..
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