About the Song
In the annals of rock and roll history, few figures stand as tall and iconic as Jerry Lee Lewis. With his untamed pompadour, flamboyant stage presence, and untamed piano playing, Lewis was a true original, a wild child of the music scene who embodied the rebellious spirit of the genre. And no song better captures this untamed energy than his 1957 hit, “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On”.
“Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” is a raw, untamed blast of rock and roll that bursts forth from the speakers with unrestrained energy. From the opening chords of Lewis’s pounding piano to his impassioned vocals and the driving rhythm section, the song is a whirlwind of excitement that never lets up. Lewis’s piano playing is particularly noteworthy, showcasing his signature style of combining blues, gospel, and country influences into a unique and exhilarating sound. His fingers dance across the keys with reckless abandon, creating a wall of sound that is both chaotic and exhilarating.
The lyrics of “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” match the music’s intensity, with Lewis singing about the overwhelming feeling of love and desire. The lyrics are simple and direct, but they are also full of raw emotion, capturing the intensity of young love in a way that is both relatable and irresistible.
“Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” was an instant hit upon its release in 1957, reaching number three on the Billboard Pop Singles chart and helping to establish Lewis as one of the biggest stars in the world. The song has since become a rock and roll classic, covered by countless artists over the years and cementing its place as one of the most important and influential songs in the genre’s history.
More than just a great song, “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” is a cultural touchstone, a symbol of the raw energy and rebellious spirit of rock and roll. It is a song that has stood the test of time, continuing to excite and inspire generations of music fans. Whenever you hear the opening chords of “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On”, you know you’re in for a wild ride.
Key takeaways:
- “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” is a classic rock and roll song that captures the genre’s raw energy and rebellious spirit.
- Jerry Lee Lewis’s untamed piano playing and impassioned vocals are the highlights of the song.
- The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, capturing the intensity of young love.
- “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” has been covered by countless artists and remains a popular song today.
- The song is a cultural touchstone and a symbol of the best of rock and roll.