About the song
Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock” is a cornerstone of rock and roll history, not only for its iconic status but also for its innovative approach to music and performance. Released in 1957 as the title track for the film of the same name, this single solidified Presley’s position as the King of Rock and Roll and introduced a new era of musical expression.
The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy melody immediately grab the listener’s attention, setting the stage for a high-energy performance. Presley’s charismatic vocals, delivered with his signature swagger, perfectly complement the upbeat tempo. The lyrics, while simple, evoke a sense of rebellion and freedom, resonating with a young generation eager to break free from societal constraints.
What truly sets “Jailhouse Rock” apart is its groundbreaking music video. The choreography, featuring Presley’s energetic dance moves and the synchronized movements of his fellow inmates, was a revolutionary concept at the time. The video’s visual style and its ability to capture the essence of the song’s rebellious spirit helped to popularize the medium and solidified Presley’s image as a cultural icon.
“Jailhouse Rock” remains a timeless classic, its influence extending far beyond its initial release. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the spirit of an era while also speaking to the universal desire for freedom and self-expression. It continues to inspire musicians and fans alike, serving as a reminder of the power of music to move and unite people.
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-