About the song
Chuck Berry, the “Father of Rock and Roll,” released “Carol” in 1958, a song that would quickly become a cornerstone of the rock and roll genre. With its infectious melody and Berry’s signature guitar riff, “Carol” captured the hearts of listeners young and old.
The song’s simple yet powerful lyrics tell the tale of a young man’s infatuation with a girl named Carol. Berry’s storytelling ability shines through as he paints a vivid picture of his longing and admiration for her. The catchy chorus, “Carol, Carol, Carol, baby, can’t you hear me calling,” perfectly encapsulates the protagonist’s heartfelt plea.
Berry’s iconic guitar playing is a major highlight of the song. His signature riff, which has been described as “a guitar lick that indeed propelled not just Berry’s greatest works, but the rock & roll genre itself,” provides a driving force that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. The interplay between the guitar and the rhythm section creates a dynamic and energetic sound that has become synonymous with rock and roll.
The popularity of “Carol” extended far beyond its initial release. The Rolling Stones, one of the most influential bands in rock history, recorded their own version of the song in 1964. Their rendition, featuring Mick Jagger’s energetic vocals and Keith Richards’s powerful guitar playing, further cemented “Carol” as a rock and roll classic. Other notable artists who have covered the song include the Beatles, who performed it live in 1963, and numerous other musicians throughout the years.
“Carol” remains a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its infectious melody, catchy lyrics, and iconic guitar riff have ensured its place in the annals of rock and roll history. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Berry’s music or simply discovering his work for the first time, “Carol” is a must-listen that will leave you tapping your feet and singing along.
Video
Lyrics
Oh Carol, don’t let him steal your heart away
I’m gonna learn to dance if it takes me all night and dayClimb into my machine so we can cruise on out
I know a swingin’ little joint where we can jump and shout
It’s not too far back off the highway, not so long a ride
You park your car out in the open, you can walk inside
A little cutie takes your hat and you can thank her, ma’am
Every time you make the scene you find the joint is jammedOh Carol, don’t let him steal your heart away
I’m gonna learn to dance if it takes me all night and dayAnd if you wanna hear some music like the boys are playin’
Hold tight, pat your foot, don’t let ’em carry it away
Don’t let the heat overcome you when they play so loud
Oh, don’t the music intrigue you when they get a crowd
If you can’t dance, I know you wish you could
I got my eyes on you baby, ’cause you dance so goodOh Carol, don’t let him steal your heart away
I’m gonna learn to dance if it takes me all night and dayDon’t let him steal your heart away
I’ve got to learn to dance if it takes you all night and day
Oh Carol