About the Song
Jailhouse Rock is a rock and roll song written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller and recorded by American singer Elvis Presley for the 1957 film of the same name. It was released on September 24, 1957, by RCA Victor as the first single from the film’s soundtrack EP. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States for seven weeks and reached number one in the United Kingdom. It has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
The song is a fast-paced, upbeat rock and roll number with a driving beat and catchy lyrics. Presley’s vocals are powerful and energetic, and the song’s distinctive guitar riff is one of the most recognizable in rock and roll history. “Jailhouse Rock” is considered one of the most important and influential rock and roll songs of all time. It has been covered by numerous artists, including The Beatles, Queen, and Bruce Springsteen. It was also featured in the 1994 film Pulp Fiction.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young man who is sent to prison for a crime he did not commit. While in prison, he learns to dance the “Jailhouse Rock,” a new dance craze that is sweeping the nation. The song’s protagonist becomes so popular for his dancing that he is eventually released from prison and becomes a successful rock and roll star.
“Jailhouse Rock” is a classic example of the rock and roll genre. It is a fast-paced, catchy song with a rebellious attitude. The song’s lyrics celebrate the freedom and excitement of rock and roll music, and its message of hope and redemption has resonated with audiences for generations.
Elvis Presley’s performance of “Jailhouse Rock” is one of the most iconic moments in rock and roll history. His energetic performance and charismatic stage presence helped to make him a global superstar. The song’s success helped to solidify rock and roll as a major force in popular music, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world today.
Here are some additional details about the song and its impact:
- The song was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who were also responsible for writing other classic rock and roll songs such as “Hound Dog” and “Kansas City.”
- The song was recorded at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California, on April 30, 1957.
- The song’s distinctive guitar riff was played by Scotty Moore.
- The song was released as the lead single from the film Jailhouse Rock, which was released on November 14, 1957.
- The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States for seven weeks and reached number one in the United Kingdom.
- The song has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, including The Beatles, Queen, and Bruce Springsteen.
- The song was featured in the 1994 film Pulp Fiction.
“Jailhouse Rock” is a true classic of rock and roll music. It is a song that has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. The song’s catchy lyrics, driving beat, and Elvis Presley’s iconic performance make it one of the most important and influential rock and roll songs of all time.