About the song
“Sweet Little Sixteen” is a timeless rock and roll classic that has captured the hearts and feet of music lovers for generations. Penned by the legendary Chuck Berry, this infectious tune was first released in 1958 and quickly climbed the charts, solidifying Berry’s status as a pioneer of the genre. With its exuberant energy and catchy melody, “Sweet Little Sixteen” became an instant sensation, transcending age and cultural barriers.
Berry’s performance of the song at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1958, immortalized in the documentary “Jazz on a Summer’s Day,” showcased his undeniable charisma and stage presence. The song’s popularity soared, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, a testament to its widespread appeal. Its enduring legacy is further solidified by its inclusion in Rolling Stone magazine’s prestigious list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
Beyond its commercial success, “Sweet Little Sixteen” has left an indelible mark on the world of music. Its infectious rhythm and youthful exuberance have inspired countless artists, from the Beach Boys to The Beatles. Brian Wilson’s iconic “Surfin’ U.S.A.” cleverly repurposed Berry’s melody, while The Beatles delivered their own energetic rendition for their BBC radio show. Even John Lennon and Paul McCartney later recorded solo versions, each adding their unique artistic flair to the timeless composition.
“Sweet Little Sixteen” remains a vibrant and exhilarating piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its ability to capture the essence of youth, excitement, and the pure joy of rock and roll has ensured its enduring status as a cultural touchstone.
Video
Lyrics
They’re really rockin’ in Boston
In Pittsburgh, P.A.
Deep in the heart of Texas
And ’round the Frisco Bay
All over St. Louis
And down in New Orleans
All the cats are gonna dance with
Sweet Little Sixteen
Sweet Little Sixteen
She’s just got to have
About half a million
Framed autographs
Her wallet’s filled with pictures
She gets ’em one by one
Become so excited
Watch her look at her run, boy
Oh, mommy, mommy
Please, may I go?
It’s such a sight to see
Somebody steal the show
Oh, daddy, daddy
I beg of you
Whisper to mommy
It’s all right with you
‘Cause they’ll be rockin’ on Bandstand
In Philadelphia, P.A.
Deep in the heart of Texas
And ’round the Frisco Bay
All over St. Louis
Way down in New Orleans
All the cats wanna dance with
Sweet Little Sixteen
‘Cause they’ll be rockin’ on Bandstand
In Philadelphia, P.A.
Deep in the heart of Texas
And ’round the Frisco Bay
All over St. Louis
Way down in New Orleans
All the cats wanna dance with, oo!
Sweet Little Sixteen
Sweet Little Sixteen
She’s got the grown-up blues
Tight dresses and lipstick
She sportin’ high heeled shoes
Oh, but tomorrow morning
She’ll have to change her trend
And be sweet sixteen
And back in class again
But they’ll be rockin’ in Boston
In Pittsburgh, P.A.
Deep in the heart of Texas
And ’round the Frisco Bay
Way out in St. Louis
Way down in New Orleans
All the cats wanna dance with
Sweet Little Sixteen