About the song
**Little Richard**, a name synonymous with the wild and energetic early days of rock and roll, burst onto the music scene in the mid-1950s with his electrifying stage presence and his signature style of high-pitched vocals and pounding piano. One of his most iconic songs, **”Rip It Up”**, released in 1956, became an instant sensation and remains a timeless classic.
The song’s infectious energy and simple, repetitive lyrics made it a favorite among teenagers and adults alike. The opening line, “Well, I’m gonna rip it up, I’m gonna rip it up,” sets the tone for a high-energy performance. Little Richard’s energetic piano playing and his powerful, almost frenzied vocals drive the song forward.
“Rip It Up” is a perfect example of Little Richard’s ability to blend various musical influences into a unique and exciting sound. The song incorporates elements of blues, gospel, and boogie-woogie, creating a rich and dynamic musical tapestry. Little Richard’s energetic stage presence, complete with his flamboyant outfits and wild dance moves, added to the song’s appeal.
The song’s popularity can be attributed to its universal theme of youthful energy and rebellion. The lyrics, while simple, convey a sense of excitement and a desire to break free from societal constraints. Little Richard’s energetic performance and the song’s infectious rhythm made it a perfect anthem for the teenage generation of the 1950s.
“Rip It Up” continues to be a beloved classic, inspiring generations of musicians and fans. Its timeless energy and catchy melody have ensured its place in the pantheon of rock and roll music. Little Richard’s groundbreaking contribution to the genre is undeniable, and “Rip It Up” remains one of his most enduring and influential songs.
Video
Lyrics
Well, it’s Saturday night, and I just got paid
Fool about my money, don’t try to save
My heart says go, go, have a time
‘Cause it’s Saturday night, and I’m feelin’ fine
I’m gonna rock it up, I’m gonna rip it up
I’m gonna shake it up, gonna ball it up
I’m gonna rock it up, and ball tonight
Got me a date, and I won’t be late
Picked her up in my ’88
Shagged on down by the Union Hall
When the joint starts jumpin’, I’ll have a ball
I’m gonna rock it up, I’m gonna rip it up
I’m gonna shake it up, gonna ball it up
I’m gonna rock it up, and ball tonight
Along about ten, I’ll be flying high
Walk on out unto the sky
But I don’t care if I spend my dough
‘Cause tonight I’m gonna be one happy soul
I’m gonna rock it up, I’m gonna rip it up
I’m gonna shake it up, gonna ball it up
I’m gonna rock it up, and ball tonight
Owww
Well, it’s Saturday night, and I just got paid
Fool about my money, don’t try to save
My heart says go, go, have a time
‘Cause it’s Saturday night, and I’m feelin’ fine
I’m gonna rock it up, I’m gonna rip it up
I’m gonna shake it up, gonna ball it up
I’m gonna rock it up, and ball tonight
Along about ten, I’ll be flying high
Walk on out unto the sky
But I don’t care if I spend my dough
‘Cause tonight I’m gonna be one happy soul
I’m gonna rock it up, I’m gonna rip it up
I’m gonna shake it up, gonna ball it up
I’m gonna rock it up, and ball tonight