Introduction
Elvis Presley’s energetic rendition of “Rip It Up” is a rock and roll classic, but the song’s history goes back a bit further. Originally written by John Marascalco, “Rip It Up” was intended for Little Richard, another pioneering figure in rock and roll. Marascalco traveled to Los Angeles in 1955 to pitch the song to Specialty Records, hoping Little Richard would record it. While “Ready Teddy” (another Marascalco composition) caught their attention, Specialty A&R man Robert Blackwell was hungry for more. Marascalco obliged, and “Rip It Up” landed in Little Richard’s hands.
Little Richard’s 1956 version of “Rip It Up” was a barnstormer, filled with his signature raspy vocals and pounding piano. It became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Rhythm & Blues chart and breaking into the Billboard Hot 100. This raw, electrifying sound was exactly what Elvis Presley, a rising star himself, was drawn to.
Elvis recorded his version of “Rip It Up” later in 1956. While it captured the frenetic energy of Little Richard’s original, Elvis imbued it with his own swagger and charisma. Elvis’s “Rip It Up” wasn’t released as a single at the time, but it became a staple of his live performances, further fueling his reputation as a performer who could incite a frenzy in his audience. The song’s electrifying energy was even captured during the legendary Million Dollar Quartet session, an impromptu jam session featuring Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins.
Whether you prefer the wild, uninhibited energy of Little Richard or the smooth, controlled power of Elvis Presley, “Rip It Up” remains a landmark song in the history of rock and roll. It’s a testament to the raw, infectious energy that first drew audiences to this revolutionary genre. So crank up the volume and get ready to be rocked!