Introduction
You Can’t Catch Up to Nadine: A Look at Chuck Berry’s “Nadine” and Keith Richards’ Collaboration
While there’s no recording of Chuck Berry and Keith Richards performing “Nadine” together, the song itself holds a significant place in rock and roll history. Here’s a look at the origin and legacy of this Chuck Berry classic:
Chuck Berry’s “Nadine” (1964):
Released in February 1964, “Nadine (Is It You?)” was Chuck Berry’s first single after a prison term. This wasn’t a brand new song, though. Berry himself admitted it was a reworking of his 1955 hit “Maybellene.” Both songs share a similar structure, featuring a protagonist desperately chasing after a woman named Nadine/Maybellene. However, “Nadine” replaces the car chase with a frantic pursuit on foot and by taxi.
The song arrived at a turning point in Berry’s career. While the early 1950s saw him establish himself as a rock and roll pioneer with hits like “Johnny B. Goode,” the early 1960s brought a period of personal turmoil and legal troubles. “Nadine” reflects this shift, with its protagonist’s desperation tinged with a darker undercurrent.
Keith Richards and Chuck Berry:
Keith Richards, the legendary guitarist of The Rolling Stones, has always been vocal about Chuck Berry’s influence. The Stones covered “Roll Over Beethoven” and “Carol” early in their career, and Richards’ guitar style owes a clear debt to Berry’s pioneering riffs.
While there’s no documented collaboration on “Nadine” specifically, it’s easy to imagine the song resonating with Richards. The Stones themselves tackled themes of heartbreak and frustration in songs like “It’s All Over Now” and “Under My Thumb,” suggesting a kinship with Berry’s portrayal in “Nadine.”
A Song That Endures:
“Nadine” remains a cornerstone of Chuck Berry’s catalogue. Its driving rhythm, playful lyrics, and underlying darkness continue to captivate listeners. The song’s influence stretches across generations, inspiring countless musicians who followed in Berry’s footsteps. So, while you might not find a recording of Berry and Richards belting out “Nadine” together, the song serves as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Chuck Berry and the undeniable influence he had on the music of The Rolling Stones, particularly Keith Richards.