Little Richard – Good Golly, Miss Molly

About The Song

“Good Golly, Miss Molly” is a rock ‘n’ roll classic initially recorded in 1956 by the American musician Little Richard. The song was released in January 1958 as Specialty single 624 and later included on Little Richard’s album in July 1958. Written by John Marascalco and producer Robert “Bumps” Blackwell, the jump blues track quickly became a rock ‘n’ roll standard and has been covered by numerous artists. It holds the rank of No. 92 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

The origin of the song’s title came from a phrase Little Richard heard from Southern DJ Jimmy Pennick, who used the expression “Good golly, Miss Molly.” Little Richard modified the lyrics, incorporating the suggestive line “Good golly, Miss Molly, you sure like to ball.” Additionally, he credited the piano intro to Ike Turner’s 1951 rock and roll song “Rocket 88,” stating that he used the riff in his act, and it fit perfectly as the lead-in to “Good Golly, Miss Molly.” The song’s infectious energy and memorable lyrics contributed to its enduring popularity in the rock ‘n’ roll genre.

Video

Lyrics

Good Golly Miss Molly, sure like to ball.
Good golly, Miss Molly, sure like to ball.
When you’re rockin’ and a rollin’ can’t hear your momma call.

From the early early mornin’ till the early early night
You can see Miss Molly rockin’ at the house of blue lights.
Good golly, Miss Molly, sure like to ball.
When you’re rockin’ and a rollin’ can’t hear your momma call.

Well, now momma, poppa told me: “Son, you better watch your step.”
If I knew my momma, poppa, have to watch my dad myself.

Good golly, Miss Molly, sure like a ball.
When you’re rockin’ and a rollin’ can’t hear your momma call.

I am going to the corner, gonna buy a diamond ring.
Would you pardon me if it’s a nineteen carat golden thing.
Good golly, Miss Molly, sure like a ball.
When you’re rockin’ and a rollin’ can’t hear your momma call.

Good golly, Miss Molly, sure like a ball.
Good golly, Miss Molly, sure like a ball.
When you’re rockin’ and a rollin’ can’t hear your momma call.