About the song
Released in 1958, “Reelin’ and Rockin'” is one of Chuck Berry’s most iconic songs and a standout track in his influential rock ‘n’ roll career. The song was featured on his album Chuck Berry Is On Top, which was a major milestone in his career, helping to establish him as one of the most important figures in the early rock ‘n’ roll movement. This track exemplifies Berry’s pioneering role in shaping the sound and style of modern rock music, and its infectious energy has made it a timeless anthem for music lovers around the world.
“Reelin’ and Rockin'” is, at its core, an upbeat, high-energy rock song that perfectly encapsulates the free-spirited nature of the late 1950s rock scene. The song’s catchy, fast-paced rhythm and playful lyrics revolve around the themes of dancing, music, and youthful exuberance, all staples of Berry’s music. It’s a celebration of the joy of life and the power of music to bring people together. The song’s lyrics describe a night of dancing and partying, with the phrase “reelin’ and rockin’” serving as a metaphor for the exhilaration of letting go and enjoying the moment on the dance floor.
This track features some of Chuck Berry’s signature guitar work, combining sharp, driving riffs with fast-paced, playful rhythms that have become a hallmark of his sound. His blend of rhythm and blues with elements of country and western, alongside his distinctive lead guitar playing, helped set the foundation for rock music as it would evolve in the 1960s and beyond. The energy and excitement of “Reelin’ and Rockin'” is undeniable, and it is easy to see why it became a favorite for many of Berry’s fans, especially during the rock ‘n’ roll explosion of the late ’50s.
“Reelin’ and Rockin'” also captures a significant moment in the cultural history of rock and roll. The song was released during the height of the rock ‘n’ roll era, when artists like Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, and Little Richard were defining the sounds of youth culture in America. At this time, rock music was a cultural force, giving voice to a generation of young people who were rebelling against the more conservative values of the previous decades. The song’s vibrant, rebellious spirit embodied the ethos of this new youth movement, and its infectious beat helped it become a staple at dances, parties, and jukeboxes across the country.
In terms of its societal impact, “Reelin’ and Rockin'” is often considered one of the songs that helped solidify Chuck Berry’s reputation as one of the forefathers of rock music. His unique blend of rhythm and blues with a rock sensibility created a sound that would influence countless artists in the decades that followed. The song helped lay the foundation for the sound of the 1960s rock boom, inspiring artists from The Beatles to The Rolling Stones, and beyond. Berry’s music, including tracks like “Reelin’ and Rockin'”, continues to be a touchstone for generations of musicians.
Lyrically, “Reelin’ and Rockin'” offers a snapshot of the carefree, rebellious attitude of youth at the time. The joy of dancing and having fun, the excitement of a rock ‘n’ roll show, and the pure physicality of the music are all present in the song’s exuberant tone. It is a celebration of life’s pleasures, encapsulated in the upbeat, rock-driven sound that would go on to influence everything from surf rock to punk.
In conclusion, “Reelin’ and Rockin'” is an enduring testament to the power of rock ‘n’ roll music and Chuck Berry’s unparalleled influence on the genre. With its infectious energy, catchy melody, and perfect blend of rhythm and guitar, it remains one of the defining tracks of the late 1950s rock scene. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or someone just discovering Berry’s work, “Reelin’ and Rockin'” stands as a joyful reminder of the way rock ‘n’ roll music can captivate the heart and soul of anyone who hears it. This track is a celebration of youth, music, and freedom, themes that resonate with listeners across generations.
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Lyrics
Sometimes I will, then again I think I won’tSometimes I will, then again I think I won’tSometimes I do, then again I think I don’tWell, I looked at my watch, it was 9:21Without a rock ‘n’ roll dance, havin’ nothin’ but funAnd we rolled, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’, and rollin’ ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, it was 9:32There’s nothin’ I’d rather do than dance with youAnd we rolled, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’ way ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, it was 9:43And every time I’d spin, she’d spin with meWe reeled, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’, and rollin’ ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, it was 9:54I said, “Dance ballerina girl, go, go, go go”And we go, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’, and rollin’ ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, it was 10:05Man, I didn’t know whether I was dead or aliveBut I was rolled, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’, and rollin’ ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, it was 10:26But I’ma keep on dancin’ ’til I got my kicksWe were reelin’, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’, and rollin’ ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, it was 10:28I gotta get my kicks ‘fore it gets too lateWe were reelin’, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’, and rollin’ ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, it was 10:29I had to hold her hand, she was still holdin’ mineWe were reelin’, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’, and rollin’ ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, and to my surpriseI was dancin’ with a woman that was twice my sizeWe were reelin’, reelin’ and rockin’I was reelin’ and rockin’, and rollin’ ’til the break of dawnWell, I looked at my watch, and it was time to goThe band leader said, “We ain’t playin’ no mo'”We were reelin’, reelin’ and rockin’We was reelin’ and rockin’ way ’til the break of dawn