About the song
“Jailhouse Rock”: A Timeless Classic by the King
If you were to ask anyone to name a song that instantly conjures up images of the 1950s, chances are “Jailhouse Rock” would be high on that list. Released in 1957, this iconic tune by Elvis Presley has stood the test of time, becoming a cornerstone of rock and roll history.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: a song about a jailhouse? How could that possibly be catchy? Well, that’s the magic of Elvis. He had a way of taking any subject matter, no matter how ordinary or even a bit odd, and turning it into something extraordinary. With his signature swagger and that unforgettable voice, Elvis transformed the story of a prison party into a foot-tapping, hip-shaking anthem.
“Jailhouse Rock” isn’t just a song; it’s a snapshot of a cultural moment. The 1950s were a time of great social change, and rock and roll was at the forefront of it all. Elvis, with his rebellious image and energetic performances, was the perfect embodiment of this new sound. His music crossed racial and generational lines, uniting people in a way that had never been seen before.
One of the most striking things about “Jailhouse Rock” is its simplicity. The lyrics are easy to follow, and the melody is catchy and memorable. Yet, there’s a depth to the song that goes beyond its surface-level appeal. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a wild and carefree party, but they also hint at the darker side of life. The image of a “jailhouse rock” suggests a kind of rebellion against the constraints of society.
The music video for “Jailhouse Rock” is another iconic piece of pop culture history. Directed by Norman Taurog, the video features Elvis performing a series of elaborate dance routines in a prison setting. It’s a visually stunning and entertaining piece of work that helped to solidify Elvis’s status as a cultural icon.
In conclusion, Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its infectious energy, catchy melody, and iconic status make it a must-listen for anyone who loves rock and roll. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Elvis or you’re just discovering his music for the first time, “Jailhouse Rock” is a song that you’re sure to enjoy.
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-
