Introduction
A Rattlesnake’s Birth: Elvis Presley’s “Shake, Rattle and Roll”
Elvis Presley’s “Shake, Rattle and Roll” isn’t just a rock and roll anthem, it’s a landmark song that bridged the gap between rhythm and blues and the burgeoning rock and roll phenomenon. Here’s a look at its fascinating history:
The song’s origins trace back to 1954. Songwriter Jesse Stone, using the pseudonym Charles E. Calhoun, crafted the tune for Big Joe Turner, a blues shouter known for his powerful vocals. The lyrics, with their suggestive imagery and driving rhythm, captured the energy of the burgeoning rock and roll scene.
However, “Shake, Rattle and Roll” wasn’t an instant hit for Turner. The suggestive nature of the lyrics caused some radio stations to shy away from playing it. Enter Elvis Presley.
In 1954, a young and unknown Elvis entered the Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. There, he recorded a demo version of “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” infusing it with his signature blend of rockabilly and gospel influences. While this version wouldn’t be released for years, it showcased the electrifying potential Elvis saw in the song.
A year later, in 1955, Bill Haley & His Comets released their own version of “Shake, Rattle and Roll.” Haley’s version toned down some of the lyrics, making it more radio-friendly, and propelled the song to mainstream success. It became a million-seller, reaching the top ten on the pop charts.
Elvis, now signed to RCA Records, finally released his own version of “Shake, Rattle and Roll” in 1956. This time, he combined elements from both Turner’s and Haley’s versions, creating a high-energy rendition that perfectly captured the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. His energetic performance on national television shows further cemented the song’s place in pop culture history.
“Shake, Rattle and Roll” wasn’t just a hit for Elvis, it was a turning point. It showcased his ability to take existing rhythm and blues sounds and infuse them with his own rock and roll swagger. The song’s success helped pave the way for Elvis’s meteoric rise and solidified him as a rock and roll pioneer.
So, the next time you hear “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” remember it’s not just a catchy tune. It’s a testament to the evolution of rock and roll, forever linked to the iconic sound of Elvis Presley.