About The Song
“Jailhouse Rock” is a rock and roll classic recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957. It’s one of his most iconic songs and is celebrated for its infectious rhythm, energetic performance, and memorable lyrics. Let’s explore the details of this legendary track:
Background:
- Artist: “Jailhouse Rock” was performed by Elvis Presley, often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll,” known for his charismatic stage presence and pioneering contributions to popular music.
- Release Date: The song was released as a single by RCA Victor in September 1957.
- Film Connection: “Jailhouse Rock” served as the title track for Elvis Presley’s film of the same name, released in 1957. The song features prominently in a pivotal dance sequence in the movie.
Musical Style:
- Genre: The song is rooted in rock and roll, featuring a driving rhythm, bluesy guitar riffs, and Presley’s electrifying vocals.
- Instrumentation: The recording includes a dynamic arrangement with prominent use of electric guitar, bass, drums, and piano, creating a lively and infectious sound.
- Vocals: Elvis Presley delivers a spirited and dynamic vocal performance, characterized by his distinctive voice, expressive delivery, and energetic persona.
Lyrics:
- Theme: “Jailhouse Rock” tells the story of a wild party in a jailhouse, where the inmates engage in a lively dance known as the “Jailhouse Rock.”
- Narrative: The lyrics describe the excitement and energy of the scene, with the narrator encouraging everyone to join in the festivities and let loose.
- Catchy Phrases: The song features memorable lines such as “Number forty-seven said to number three, ‘You’re the cutest jailbird I ever did see,’” and “Spider Murphy played the tenor saxophone, Little Joe was blowin’ on the slide trombone.”
Cultural Impact:
- Chart Success: “Jailhouse Rock” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of Elvis Presley’s signature songs.
- Legacy: The song is regarded as a classic of rock and roll music and is celebrated for its infectious groove, memorable melody, and iconic performance. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years.
- Popularity: “Jailhouse Rock” remains a beloved favorite among Elvis Presley fans and rock music enthusiasts, standing as a timeless anthem of rebellion, youth, and the spirit of rock and roll.
Conclusion:
“Jailhouse Rock” by Elvis Presley is a quintessential rock and roll classic that continues to captivate audiences with its infectious rhythm, dynamic performance, and memorable lyrics. With its energetic delivery and charismatic vocals, the song exemplifies Presley’s enduring influence and his status as a cultural icon. As a cornerstone of rock and roll history, “Jailhouse Rock” remains an essential part of Elvis Presley’s legacy and a timeless favorite among music fans of all generations.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
The warden threw a party in the county jail.
The prison band was there and they began to wail.
The band was jumpin’ and the joint began to swing.
You should’ve heard those knocked out jailbirds sing.
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Spider Murphy played the tenor saxophone,
Little Joe was blowin’ on the slide trombone.
The drummer boy from Illinois went crash, boom, bang,
The whole rhythm section was the Purple Gang.
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Number forty-seven said to number three:
“You’re the cutest jailbird I ever did see.
I sure would be delighted with your company,
Come on and do the Jailhouse Rock with me.”
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Sad Sack was a sittin’ on a block of stone
Way over in the corner weepin’ all alone.
The warden said, “Hey, buddy, don’t you be no square.
If you can’t find a partner use a wooden chair.”
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Shifty Henry said to Bugs, “For Heaven’s sake,
No one’s lookin’, now’s our chance to make a break.”
Bugsy turned to Shifty and he said, “Nix nix,
I wanna stick around a while and get my kicks.”
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock…