About the song
“You Never Can Tell,” also known by its French title “C’est La Vie” or its alternate name “Teenage Wedding,” is an enduring classic written by the legendary Chuck Berry. Initially composed in the early 1960s while Berry was serving time in federal prison, the song was later released in 1964 as part of his album “St. Louis to Liverpool” and quickly became a hit.
The song’s narrative revolves around the wedding and subsequent life of two teenagers, chronicling their journey from humble beginnings in a modest apartment to celebrating their anniversary in New Orleans, where their wedding took place. Each verse concludes with the timeless refrain, “‘C’est la vie,’ say the old folks, ‘it goes to show you never can tell.'” This catchy and upbeat track features an iconic piano hook played by Johnnie Johnson, adding to its infectious rhythm and charm.
Critically acclaimed for its rock-a-rhythmic style infused with a South of the Border flavor, “You Never Can Tell” received positive reviews upon its release. Cash Box praised Berry’s delivery and the song’s vibrant production, highlighting its ability to captivate listeners with its narrative and musical arrangement.
Beyond its initial success, the song has maintained cultural relevance over the decades, finding new audiences through various covers and appearances in popular media. Emmylou Harris notably recorded a rendition titled “(You Never Can Tell) C’est La Vie,” which became a Top Ten hit on the Country charts in 1977. The song’s resurgence occurred in 1994 with its prominent inclusion in Quentin Tarantino’s film “Pulp Fiction,” where it underscored a memorable dance scene featuring John Travolta and Uma Thurman.
Throughout the years, “You Never Can Tell” has been covered by artists spanning different genres, including country, rock, and folk, attesting to its enduring appeal and musical adaptability. Its nostalgic lyrics and upbeat melody continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, making it a timeless classic in Chuck Berry’s illustrious repertoire and a testament to his enduring influence on popular music.
Video
Lyrics
It was a teenage wedding
And the old folks wished them well
You could see that Pierre
Did truly love that mademoiselle
Now the young monsieur and madame
Have rung the Chapel bell
“C’est la vie”, say the old folks
It goes to show you never can tell
They furnished off an apartment
With a two room Roebuck sale
The coolerator was crammed
With TV dinners and ginger ale
But when Pierre found work
The little money comin’ worked out well
“C’est la vie”, said the old folks
It goes to show you never can tell
They had a hi-fi phono
Boy did they let it blast
Seven hundred little records
All rock, rhythm and jazz
When the sun went down
The rapid tempo of the music fell
“C’est la vie”, say the old folks
It goes to show you never can tell
They bought a souped-up jitney
It was a cherry-red fifty three
Drove it down to New Orleans
To celebrate the anniversary
It was there that Pierre
Was wedded to the lovely mademoiselle
“C’est la vie”, say the old folks
It goes to show you never can tell
It was a teenage wedding
And the old folks wished them well
You could see that Pierre
Did truly love that mademoiselle
And now the young monsieur and madame
Have rung the Chapel bell
“C’est la vie”, say the old folks
It goes to show you never can tell
“C’est la vie”, say the old folks
It goes to show you never can tell
“C’est la vie”, say the old folks
It goes to show you never can tell