About The Song
Elvis Presley's "Jailhouse Rock," released in 1957 as part of the soundtrack for the film of the same name, stands as an enduring testament to the King of Rock 'n' Roll's musical prowess. Composed by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song became an instant classic, blending energetic rockabilly with Presley's charismatic vocals. "Jailhouse Rock" not only dominated the charts but also left an indelible mark on the evolution of rock music, becoming a cultural phenomenon that transcended its cinematic origins.
At its core, "Jailhouse Rock" is a musical tour de force, characterized by its infectious rhythm and Presley's dynamic vocal delivery. The song's opening guitar riff, played by Scotty Moore, is instantly recognizable and serves as a prelude to the energetic explosion that follows. Presley's vocals exude confidence and swagger, capturing the rebellious spirit of the emerging rock 'n' roll era. The accompanying instrumentation, including the spirited piano work and the driving beat, creates a sonic landscape that invites listeners to embrace the danceable and rebellious ethos of the time.
The lyrics of "Jailhouse Rock" tell the tale of a young man's experience with the transformative power of music while incarcerated. The narrative, a perfect fit for the film's storyline, intertwines the worlds of entertainment and imprisonment, highlighting the liberating influence of rock 'n' roll. The song's lyrics, infused with a playful and cheeky spirit, mirror Presley's own charisma and became synonymous with the burgeoning youth culture's desire for freedom and self-expression. As a pivotal moment in the film "Jailhouse Rock," the song's performance showcases Presley's electrifying stage presence, further solidifying its impact on both the film and the music industry.
"Jailhouse Rock" became more than just a hit song; it became a cultural touchstone that resonated with a generation on the cusp of social change. The song's success was not confined to the charts; it permeated dance halls, jukeboxes, and the collective consciousness of the 1950s. Elvis Presley's performance of "Jailhouse Rock" on The Ed Sullivan Show, a groundbreaking television moment, further propelled the song into iconic status. Over the decades, the track has maintained its relevance, consistently appearing on lists of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its influence can be heard in subsequent generations of musicians who have paid homage to Presley's electrifying sound and style.
Elvis Presley's "Jailhouse Rock" remains a cornerstone in the history of rock 'n' roll, symbolizing the cultural shift and musical innovation of the 1950s. Its infectious rhythm, rebellious lyrics, and Presley's charismatic performance encapsulate the essence of an era marked by change and youthful exuberance. Beyond its initial success, the song continues to captivate audiences, serving as a timeless reminder of Elvis Presley's enduring impact on the music landscape. "Jailhouse Rock" is not just a song; it's a cultural artifact that immortalizes the King's contribution to the evolution of rock music and remains a source of inspiration for generations of music enthusiasts.
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 a purple gang
Let's rock
Everybody, let's rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin' to the Jailhouse Rock
Number 47 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, Rock, Rock
Sad Sack was 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 the 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