About the song
In the annals of rock and roll history, few songs hold the same level of energy and cultural impact as Chuck Berry’s “School Days.” Released in 1957, the song transcended its seemingly simple subject matter—the frustrations and joys of school life—to become a rock and roll anthem.
This infectious tune, also known as “School Day (Ring! Ring! Goes the Bell),” wasn’t just a catchy melody. It was a cultural phenomenon. Released as a single in March 1957, it quickly rose to prominence, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and reaching number one on the R&B Best Sellers chart. “School Days” became Berry’s third highest-ranked pop hit, solidifying his position as a leading pioneer of rock and roll.
Beyond the commercial success, the song’s influence lies in its musical innovation and lyrical audacity. With its driving rhythm section and Chuck Berry’s signature guitar riffs, “School Days” pulsated with a raw energy that resonated with a generation yearning for a new sound. The lyrics, delivered in Berry’s unmistakable swagger, captured the relatable teenage experience of longing for freedom while being confined by the school bell’s tyranny.
The song’s ending line, “Hail, hail rock and roll / Deliver me from the days of old,” cemented its status as a rock and roll anthem. This powerful plea became the title of a 1987 documentary film about Chuck Berry, further solidifying the song’s connection with the genre’s revolutionary spirit.
“School Days” wasn’t just a hit for Chuck Berry. Its influence extended to countless artists across generations. From The Beach Boys and AC/DC to Lil Rob and The Simpsons, the song has been covered and reimagined, a testament to its enduring appeal.
“School Days” isn’t just a song about school. It’s a celebration of youth, rebellion, and the irresistible power of rock and roll. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most profound experiences can be found in the ordinary, punctuated by the liberating ring of the school bell.
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Lyrics
Up in the mornin’ and out to school
The teacher is teachin’ the Golden Rule
American history and practical math
You study ’em hard and hopin’ to pass
Workin’ your fingers right down to the bone
And the guy behind you won’t leave you alone
Ring, ring goes the bell
The cook in the lunchroom’s ready to sell
You’re lucky if you can find a seat
You’re fortunate if you have time to eat
Back in the classroom, open your books
Gee, but the teacher don’t know how mean she looks
Soon as three o’clock rolls around
You finally lay your burden down
Close up your books, get out of your seat
Down the halls and into the street
Up to the corner and ’round the bend
Right to the juke joint, you go in
Drop the coin right into the slot
You gotta hear something that’s really hot
With the one you love, you’re makin’ romance
All day long, you been wanting to dance
Feelin’ the music from head to toe
‘Round and ’round and ’round you go
Drop the coin right into the slot
You gotta hear something that’s really hot
With the one you love, you’re makin’ romance
All day long, you been wanting to dance
Feelin’ the music from head to toe
‘Round and ’round and ’round you go
Hail, hail rock ‘n’ roll
Deliver me from the days of old
Long live rock ‘n’ roll
The beat of the drum is loud and bold
Rock, rock, rock ‘n’ roll
The feelin’ is there, body and soul