“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a time in the 1950s when rock ‘n’ roll was just beginning to take over, and music was transforming into something raw, electric, and exciting. In the midst of this revolution came a song that seemed to capture the spirit of it all—Jerry Lee Lewis’s “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On.” This song wasn’t just music; it was an experience. With its irresistible beat and Lewis’s signature piano-playing style, it became a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and pure joy. Whether you’ve danced to it or only heard it in passing, this iconic track has left its mark on the world.
About The Composition
- Title: Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On
- Composer: Dave “Curlee” Williams and James Faye “Roy” Hall
- Premiere Date: Released as a single in 1957
- Album: Jerry Lee Lewis (Self-titled debut album)
- Genre: Rock and roll, rockabilly
Background
“Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” wasn’t originally a Jerry Lee Lewis song, but his version is undoubtedly the most famous. Written by Dave “Curlee” Williams and Roy Hall, it was first recorded by Hall in 1955, though it failed to make a splash. It wasn’t until 1957, when Lewis brought his fiery energy to the track, that the song truly came alive. Lewis’s recording took the rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll worlds by storm. With his powerful vocals and thunderous piano style, Lewis transformed the song into something electrifying, making it one of the definitive hits of the 1950s.
Initially, there was some resistance from radio stations due to the song’s suggestive lyrics, but once it hit the airwaves, listeners couldn’t get enough. It shot up to No. 3 on the Billboard pop charts and became a smash on the R&B and country charts as well, solidifying Lewis’s status as a rock ‘n’ roll icon. This song catapulted him into stardom and became one of the earliest and biggest crossover hits of its era.
Musical Style
At its core, “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” is a rockabilly track infused with Jerry Lee Lewis’s unique blend of boogie-woogie piano. The song features driving piano rhythms, a bouncy beat, and Lewis’s unmistakable energetic style. He pounded the piano with both hands, merging country and rhythm and blues with a rebellious intensity. The song follows a simple structure, but what makes it stand out is the sheer energy and passion behind the performance.
Lewis’s use of dynamics—starting with a smooth introduction before escalating into wild, pounding piano rhythms—is one of the track’s standout elements. The song encourages listeners to dance, embodying the uncontainable spirit of early rock ‘n’ roll. Lewis’s vocal performance is equally remarkable, moving from playful to fiery as the song progresses, drawing listeners in and never letting go.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” are celebratory and fun, focusing on dancing, partying, and living in the moment. While the song faced criticism for being too suggestive for the time, its playful innuendo and spirited delivery made it impossible to resist. Lyrics like “We ain’t fakin’, whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on” invite listeners to let loose, dance, and be part of the excitement.
Performance History
After its release in 1957, “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” quickly became a defining track of Jerry Lee Lewis’s career. One of the most memorable performances came on The Steve Allen Show, where Lewis’s intense piano-playing and stage presence shocked and thrilled viewers. Over the years, it has remained a staple in Lewis’s live performances, showcasing his uncontainable energy. It has also been covered by many artists, but none have captured the raw excitement that Lewis brought to the original.
Cultural Impact
“Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” is often credited with breaking barriers between genres, becoming a massive crossover hit on pop, country, and R&B charts. Its influence on rock ‘n’ roll cannot be overstated—it embodied the wild, unfiltered energy of the era. The song has been featured in films, commercials, and various media, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone. Jerry Lee Lewis’s performance style, seen in this track, helped shape what rock ‘n’ roll would become—rebellious, powerful, and undeniably fun.
Legacy
More than six decades later, “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” still resonates with audiences. Its legacy lies in how it pushed the boundaries of mainstream music, daring to blend genres and bring a new, electrifying energy to rock ‘n’ roll. The song not only launched Jerry Lee Lewis’s career into superstardom but also contributed to the rise of rock ‘n’ roll as a dominant force in music. It continues to inspire musicians and ignite dance floors, proving that great music transcends time.
Conclusion
There’s a reason “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” remains one of the most iconic songs in music history. It’s not just about the song itself but the sheer energy and passion Jerry Lee Lewis brought to it. This song embodies the wild, unrestrained spirit of rock ‘n’ roll, and it’s hard not to get swept up in its infectious rhythm. If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of this track, now’s the perfect time to dive in. For a real treat, I recommend watching a live performance of Jerry Lee Lewis—because that’s when the “whole lotta shakin’” truly comes alive.
Video
Lyrics
Come on over, baby, whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Yes I said come on over, baby, baby, you can’t go wrong
We ain’t fakin’ a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Well, I said come on over, baby, we got chicken in the barn
Come on over, baby, babe, I got the bull by the horns
We ain’t fakin’, a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Well, shake, baby, shake
I said shake, baby, shake
I said shake it, baby, shake it
Well shake, baby, shake
Come on over, whole lot of shakin goin’ on
Ah let’s go
Well, come over, baby, we got chicken in the barn
Whose barn, what barn, my barn
Come on over, baby, better got your bull by the horn
We ain’t fakin’, whole lot of shakin’ goin’ on
Easy now
Shake it, oh, shake it, baby
Yeah, you can shake one time for me
Well, I said on come over, baby, whole lot of shakin’ goin’ on
Now let’s get real low one time now
Shake, baby, shake
All you gotta, honey, is kinda stand in one spot
Wiggle around just a little bit
That’s what you gotta do, yeah
Ooh, babe, whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on
Now let’s go one time
Shake it, babe, shake it
Shake it, babe, shake
Shake it, babe, come on, babe
Shake it, babe, shake it
Come on over, whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on