About the song
“Rock Around the Clock” stands as a landmark in the history of rock and roll, written by Max C. Freedman and James E. Myers (under the pseudonym “Jimmy De Knight”) in 1952. The song gained enduring fame with its electrifying rendition by Bill Haley & His Comets in 1954 on American Decca Records. This recording not only topped the charts in both the US and UK but also became synonymous with the burgeoning youth culture of the 1950s.
Initially penned as “We’re Gonna Rock Around the Clock Tonight!”, the title was eventually shortened to “(We’re Gonna) Rock Around the Clock” for its release. Bill Haley’s version of the song broke new ground by becoming the first rock and roll track to reach number one on the pop charts in both countries, marking a significant cultural shift and solidifying rock and roll as a mainstream phenomenon worldwide.
The song’s influence was further amplified when it was prominently featured in the 1955 film *Blackboard Jungle*, where its infectious beat served as a backdrop to scenes depicting teenage rebellion and social unrest. This exposure propelled “Rock Around the Clock” to even greater heights of popularity, making it an anthem for a generation seeking freedom and self-expression through music.
Beyond its chart-topping success, “Rock Around the Clock” holds a revered place in music history. In 2018, it was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress, recognizing its profound impact on American culture. Rolling Stone magazine also honored the song by ranking it 159th on their list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, underscoring its enduring significance and timeless appeal.
The song’s origins and early recordings involved some twists and turns, including legal disputes and false starts. Originally credited to Myers and Freedman, the song’s exact authorship remains a subject of debate among historians. Despite initial challenges in recording and disagreements with producers, Haley’s persistence and Myers’ dedication ultimately led to the iconic version that captured the spirit of a musical revolution.
“Rock Around the Clock” not only launched Bill Haley & His Comets into stardom but also paved the way for countless rock and roll artists who followed. Its energetic 12-bar blues format, coupled with Haley’s distinctive vocals and the Comets’ lively instrumentation, set a precedent for the genre’s evolution and enduring popularity.
In conclusion, “Rock Around the Clock” remains a cultural touchstone, embodying the spirit of rebellion and youthful exuberance that defined the early days of rock and roll. Its legacy continues to resonate with music enthusiasts of all ages, ensuring its place as a timeless classic in the annals of popular music.
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Lyrics
One, two, three o’clock, four o’clock, rock
Five, six, seven o’clock, eight o’clock, rock
Nine, ten, eleven o’clock, twelve o’clock, rock
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
Put your glad rags on and join me, hon’
We’ll have some fun when the clock strikes one
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
When the clock strikes two, three and four
If the band slows down we’ll yell for more
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
When the chimes ring five, six and seven
We’ll be right in seventh heaven
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
When it’s eight, nine, ten, eleven too
I’ll be goin’ strong and so will you
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
When the clock strikes twelve, we’ll cool off then
Start a rockin’ round the clock again
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight