About the song
Jailhouse Rock – Elvis Presley’s Rock and Roll Anthem
Jailhouse Rock is one of Elvis Presley’s most famous and energetic songs. Released in 1957, the song became an instant hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying there for seven weeks. It was also the title track of the film Jailhouse Rock, in which Elvis starred. With its lively rhythm, unforgettable guitar riffs, and exciting vocals, Jailhouse Rock remains one of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time.
The lyrics tell a fun and playful story about a party inside a prison, where the inmates dance and celebrate to the sound of rock and roll. The song introduces characters like Spider Murphy playing the saxophone and the whole rhythm section being the Purple Gang. Even though the setting is a jail, the mood is lighthearted and full of energy. This creative storytelling, combined with Elvis’s electrifying performance, made the song an unforgettable classic.
Musically, Jailhouse Rock is driven by a strong beat, a catchy guitar riff, and Elvis’s powerful voice. The song’s rhythm and energy make it impossible to sit still while listening. It is considered one of the earliest songs to define the sound of rock and roll. The instrumental breaks and Elvis’s famous vocal growls give it a unique and exciting feel that still sounds fresh today.
Beyond the music, Jailhouse Rock became famous for its dance sequence in the movie, where Elvis performed one of his most iconic dance routines. His energetic moves and charisma set the standard for future rock performances. Even decades later, the song continues to be a favorite among fans of all ages. Whether played on the radio, in movies, or at parties, Jailhouse Rock remains a symbol of Elvis Presley’s lasting influence on music and entertainment.
Video
Lyrics
The warden threw a party in the county jail
The prison band was there and they began to wail
The band was jumpin’ and the joint began to swing
You should’ve heard those knocked out jailbirds sing
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Spider Murphy played the tenor saxophone
Little Joe was blowin’ on the slide trombone
The drummer boy from Illinois went crash, boom, bang
The whole rhythm section was a purple gang
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Number 47 said to number three
“You’re the cutest jailbird I ever did see
I sure would be delighted with your company
Come on and do the Jailhouse Rock with me”
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock, Rock, Rock
Sad Sack was sittin’ on a block of stone
Way over in the corner weepin’ all alone
The warden said, “Hey, buddy, don’t you be no square
If you can’t find a partner, use a wooden chair”
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Shifty Henry said to Bugs, “For Heaven’s sake
No one’s lookin’, now’s the chance to make a break”
Bugsy turned to Shifty and he said, “Nix nix
I wanna stick around a while and get my kicks”
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock, dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock, dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock-
