About the song
**Introduction to “Shake, Rattle and Roll”**
“Shake, Rattle and Roll” is a foundational track in the history of rhythm and blues, rock and roll, and American popular music. Written in 1954 by Jesse Stone—who is often credited under his songwriting pseudonym “Charles Calhoun”—this song captures the exuberance and raw energy of its era. The song was first recorded by Big Joe Turner, a prominent blues shouter whose powerful voice and commanding stage presence made him a key figure in the genre’s development.
The origins of “Shake, Rattle and Roll” are rooted in earlier musical traditions. The phrase “shake, rattle and roll” was part of the vernacular and had appeared in various songs before, including a 1910 ragtime tune by Baby Franklin Seals and a 1919 recording by Al Bernard. However, it was Stone’s adaptation of the phrase that transformed it into a rock and roll anthem. Ahmet Ertegun of Atlantic Records suggested to Stone that he compose an up-tempo blues for Big Joe Turner, leading to the creation of this iconic song.
Turner recorded the song in New York City on February 15, 1954, and Atlantic Records released it as a single in April of that year. The song quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success marked a significant moment in the crossover of blues into mainstream popular music.
Bill Haley & His Comets also recognized the song’s potential and recorded a cover version on June 7, 1954. Released in August of the same year, Haley’s rendition brought a rock and roll twist to the song, featuring a lively instrumental arrangement with Haley on vocals, Johnny Grande on piano, Billy Williamson on rhythm guitar, Marshall Lytle on bass, and Joey Ambrose on saxophone. Haley’s version climbed to number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent twenty-seven weeks in the Top 40. It also enjoyed considerable success in the UK, peaking at number four.
“Shake, Rattle and Roll” stands as a landmark recording that exemplified the merging of rhythm and blues with rock and roll. Its energetic rhythm, catchy lyrics, and dynamic performances by both Turner and Haley helped pave the way for the genre’s widespread popularity. The song’s enduring appeal is evident from its critical acclaim, including its placement at number 127 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. This track not only captures the spirit of its time but also continues to influence and inspire new generations of musicians and listeners.
Video
Lyrics
Get Out From That Kitchen
And Rattle Those Pots And Pans,
Get Out From That Kitchen
And Rattle Those Pots And Pans.
Well, Roll My Breakfast,
‘Cause I’m A Hungry Man.
I Said Shake Rattle And Roll,
I Said Shake Rattle And Roll,
I Said Shake Rattle And Roll,
I Said Shake Rattle And Roll;
You Never Do Nothin’
To Save Your Doggone Soul.
Wearin’ Those Dresses,
Your Hair Done Up So Right
Wearin’ Those Dresses,
Your Hair Done Up So Right;
You Look So Warm,
But Your Heart Is Cold As Ice.
I Said Shake Rattle And Roll …
I’m Like A One-Eyed Cat,
Peepin’ In A Sea-Food Store,
I’m Like A One-Eyed Cat,
Peepin’ In A Sea-Food Store;
I Can Look At You,
Till You Don’t Love Me No More
I Believe You’re Doin’ Me Wrong
And Now I Know,
I Believe You’re Doin’ Me Wrong
And Now I Know;
The More I Work,
The Faster My Money Goes.
I Said Shake Rattle And Roll …