Everly Brothers – Wake Up Little Susie

About the Song

Wake Up Little Susie by the Everly Brothers is a classic rock and roll song written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant and published in 1957. The song is best known in a recording by the Everly Brothers, issued by Cadence Records as catalog number 1337. The Everly Brothers record reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number two on the UK Singles Chart.

The song is a simple love ballad about a young couple who are caught in a compromising position. The boy, who is named “Jesse,” is trying to convince his girlfriend, “Susie,” to wake up and run away with him. He tells her that they are in love and that they can’t be together if they stay where they are.

The song is notable for its catchy melody, its simple but effective lyrics, and the Everly Brothers’ signature harmonies. The song’s driving rhythm and the Everlys’ close harmonies helped to define the sound of rock and roll in the late 1950s.

The song’s lyrics are simple but effective. The boy’s plea to Susie is direct and heartfelt. He tells her that he loves her and that he can’t live without her. The song’s lyrics are also relatable to young people of all ages. The song’s message of young love and the desire to escape from the constraints of society is timeless.

The song’s melody is catchy and memorable. The song’s simple chord progression and the Everlys’ close harmonies combine to create a sound that is both instantly recognizable and appealing. The song’s driving rhythm helps to keep the listener engaged and the song’s overall sound is both upbeat and romantic.

The Everly Brothers’ recording of “Wake Up Little Susie” is a classic example of rock and roll at its best. The song’s catchy melody, simple but effective lyrics, and the Everlys’ signature harmonies helped to define the sound of rock and roll in the late 1950s. The song is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.

Here are some additional thoughts on the song:

• The song’s title is clever and attention-grabbing. It is a direct command that is sure to get the listener’s attention.
• The song’s lyrics are full of imagery. The boy describes Susie as being “sweet and fair” and “as pretty as a picture.” He also describes the setting of the song as being “a dark and lonely night.” This imagery helps to create a sense of atmosphere and suspense.
• The song’s structure is simple but effective. The song has a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus format. This structure is easy to follow and helps to keep the song moving forward.
• The song’s production is top-notch. The song’s instrumentation is clean and clear and the Everly Brothers’ vocals are well-recorded. This production helps to make the song sound professional and polished.

Overall, “Wake Up Little Susie” is a classic rock and roll song that is sure to please fans of all ages. The song’s catchy melody, simple but effective lyrics, and the Everly Brothers’ signature harmonies make it a timeless classic that will continue to be enjoyed for years to come.

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