About the song
“Jailhouse Rock” by Elvis Presley is a quintessential rock ‘n’ roll classic that has stood the test of time since its release in 1957. Written by the legendary songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song was crafted specifically for the film of the same name, in which Elvis starred. It was released as a single on September 24, 1957, and later featured on the soundtrack album “Jailhouse Rock.”
The song’s infectious energy and Elvis’s electrifying performance quickly propelled “Jailhouse Rock” to the top of the charts. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained there for seven weeks. In the UK, it also topped the charts, showcasing Elvis’s global appeal. The song’s success was further bolstered by the memorable dance sequence in the film, choreographed by Alex Romero, which featured Elvis and a troupe of dancers performing in a stylized jail setting. This iconic scene has since become one of the most famous moments in music and film history.
“Jailhouse Rock” exemplifies the rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll with its driving beat, dynamic vocals, and witty lyrics. The song’s narrative, about a prison concert that turns into a wild party, captures the essence of the youthful exuberance and defiance that characterized the genre in its early years. Elvis’s raw, powerful delivery and the song’s catchy, up-tempo rhythm make it impossible to resist tapping your feet and singing along.
The song’s influence on popular culture is undeniable. It has been covered by numerous artists across different genres, and its distinctive riff and chorus have become instantly recognizable to music fans worldwide. “Jailhouse Rock” has also been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
Elvis’s performance of “Jailhouse Rock” in the film is often cited as one of his best on-screen moments. His charismatic presence, combined with the song’s high-energy arrangement, helped to solidify his image as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” The film itself was a significant success, further boosting Elvis’s career and expanding his influence beyond music into the realm of cinema.
For many, “Jailhouse Rock” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural landmark that captures a pivotal moment in the history of rock ‘n’ roll. Its enduring popularity and impact on subsequent generations of musicians and fans speak to its importance in the pantheon of great rock songs. Whether you’re a lifelong Elvis fan or a newcomer to his music, “Jailhouse Rock” remains a thrilling and essential listen.
Video
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-