5 Essential Songs By Carl Perkins You Must Know
Carl Perkins stands as a towering figure in rockabilly music history with hits like ‘Blue suede shoes’. His tunes captivated listeners on Jukebox Saturday Night and also found a special place in collections around the globe.
Take a look into the history and legacy of Perkins with these five essential songs that helped shape rock ‘n’ roll, each echoing through generations and keeping his influence alive.
Setting the stage
Carl Perkins played a big role in the early days of rock and roll. He shaped the rockabilly genre with his mix of country, blues and rhythm and blues. Despite growing up poor, he used his voice and guitar skills to make a mark on music.
In a famed recording session in 1956, Perkins performed with legends like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis, who were among the music industry’s greats in the ‘60s. This group was called the ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ by the press and represented Sun Records’ impact on the rock ‘n’ roll movement.
Song #1: ‘Blue suede shoes’
‘Blue suede shoes’ became a key track in rockabilly music, capturing the spirit of the 1950s. Its catchy rhythm and lyrics about a man and his prized shoes reflected the lively and free-spirited vibe of the time.
Carl Perkins’ song resonated with the youth of the 1950s, who were eager to express themselves in new ways.
Amazing success
This song made Perkins a major figure in rockabilly music. It showcased his skill in blending country, blues, and rhythm and blues into a fresh sound.
The song reached No. 2 on the Billboard pop charts and No. 1 on the country charts. Its success across different music genres showed its broad appeal. Elvis Presley also recorded the song shortly after Perkins, which helped boost its influence in the early rock ‘n’ roll days.
It has since been chosen by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as one of the songs that shaped rock and roll and has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. The song has become an enduring hit, still being listened to around the web today.
Song #2: ‘Boppin’ the blues’
‘Boppin’ the blues’ perfectly captured the essence of rockabilly with its energetic mix of country and blues. Its powerful guitar riffs and lively beat set the standard for what rockabilly music should sound like.
Perkins’ knack for blending different musical styles came through clearly in this track, marking him as a pioneer of genre fusion.
Inspiring other artists
The influence of ‘Boppin’ the blues’ extends far beyond its original release, as numerous artists have covered the song through the years.
Artists like Ricky Nelson, Gene Vincent, and The Kingbees have put their own spin on the track, each adding a unique touch while staying true to the rockabilly spirit. These covers demonstrate the song’s adaptability and enduring charm, illustrating how it continues to resonate with new generations of musicians.
Song #3: ‘Your true love’
‘Your true love’ stands out as a significant song in both country and rockabilly genres. Carl Perkins recorded it during an impromptu session with the Million Dollar Quartet, capturing a raw and lively moment that resonated with the music of the time.
Famous covers
Just like with Perkins’ other hits, it has been covered by other artists, adding to its popularity. Among the artists who’ve performed ‘Your true love’ are Jumpin’ Gene Simmons, Ricky Nelson and The Beatles.
Song #4: ‘Dixie fried’
Released in 1956, ‘Dixie fried’ reached No. 10 on the Billboard country chart, showing its broad appeal. The song brought raw energy and showcased Perkins’ distinctive guitar playing, setting a high bar for rockabilly music.
The lasting effect of ‘Dixie fried’
Over the years, the song has inspired numerous artists and seventies jukebox hits. Its influence can be seen in songs like Sonny West’s ‘Rave on’. In 1973, Carl Perkins recorded a new version of the song called ‘(Let’s get) dixiefried’ for his album My kind of country. It reached No. 61 on the Billboard country chart.
Many artists, including Chris Isaak, George Thorogood and The Kentucky Headhunters, have covered ‘Dixie fried’. These versions highlight the song’s ongoing appeal and demonstrate how Perkins’ music continues to inspire musicians across generations.
Song #5: ‘Birth of rock and roll’
This song, which Perkins and his son Greg co-wrote, honours the beginnings of rock ‘n’ roll. Released in 1986 as part of the Class of ‘55 album with stars like Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison, it captures the spirit and energy of rock ‘n’ roll’s inception.
‘Birth of rock and roll’ has influenced many artists, extending its impact well beyond its release. It also made an impact due to the following:
- Musical influence. Perkins’ mix of country, rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll has touched many musicians.
- Cultural legacy. The song links the early days of rock to later developments, noting its influence on bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
- Enduring popularity. The song remains popular, continuing to be a key part of many musicians’ playlists.
The recording of the song happened at Sun Studios and brought together many musicians from the early days of rock and roll. This session celebrated the 30th anniversary of rock ‘n’ roll, showing its lasting importance in culture.
A lasting legacy in music
Carl Perkins left a deep imprint on music and popular culture through his pioneering work in rockabilly. His influence was recognised with several prestigious awards, including:
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was inducted in 1987 for his crucial role in shaping rock ‘n’ roll.
- Rockabilly Hall of Fame. He was celebrated as a key figure in rockabilly music.
- Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Perkins was honoured in 2014 for his contributions to Memphis music.
- Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. In 1985, he was recognised for his songwriting skills.
Key points to remember
- Rockabilly pioneer. Carl Perkins was a key figure in early rock and roll, blending country, blues, and rhythm and blues to create the rockabilly genre.
- Sun Records. In 1954, Perkins began his career with Sun Records, leading to hits after hits.
- ‘Blue suedes shoes’. This song became a rockabilly anthem, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard pop charts and No. 1 on the country charts.
- ‘Boppin’ the blues’. This showcased Perkins’ skill in blending country and blues, setting the standard for rockabilly.
- ‘Your true love’. Recorded with the Million Dollar Quartet, the song captured the raw energy of rockabilly and highlighted musical friendships.
- ‘Dixie fried’. Released in 1956, it reached No. 10 on the Billboard country chart and influenced artists for decades.
- ‘Birth of rock and roll’. Released in 1986, this song celebrated rock and roll’s early days and reunited many pioneering musicians.
- Lasting legacy. Perkins’ work continues to inspire musicians, shaping the future of rock music with his innovative style.
Step back in time with Jukebox Saturday Night, where classic hits come alive once more. Relive the magic of yesteryear with us.
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