About the song
There are few songs in rock and roll history as electrifying and instantly recognizable as **Elvis Presley – Jailhouse Rock**. Released in 1957, this high-energy anthem not only became one of Presley’s most iconic hits but also helped shape the very foundation of rock music. With its infectious rhythm, rebellious spirit, and Presley’s dynamic vocal performance, **Jailhouse Rock** remains a defining moment in both his career and the genre itself.
Written by the legendary duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, **Jailhouse Rock** was crafted specifically for Presley’s film of the same name. But while many movie tie-in songs fade into obscurity, this one became a cultural phenomenon. The song’s pounding drumbeat, slashing guitar riffs, and swinging bass line create an irresistible groove that makes it impossible not to move along. Then, there’s Presley himself—his vocals are playful yet commanding, exuding charisma and attitude that perfectly fit the song’s rebellious narrative.
Lyrically, **Jailhouse Rock** is a lighthearted, almost surreal tale set within a prison where inmates turn their confinement into an all-out rock and roll party. The clever wordplay, packed with characters like “Spider Murphy” and “Shifty Henry,” adds a sense of humor and fun to the song, making it all the more memorable. But beyond the storytelling, the energy in Presley’s delivery captures something deeper—an uninhibited joy that embodies the essence of rock and roll itself.
The impact of **Elvis Presley – Jailhouse Rock** cannot be overstated. Not only did it top the charts upon release, but it also influenced generations of musicians. The song’s raw energy and swagger set a new standard for what rock music could be—exciting, rebellious, and undeniably cool. Decades later, it continues to be a staple in pop culture, frequently covered, referenced, and celebrated as one of the greatest rock and roll recordings of all time.
Elvis Presley had many legendary moments, but **Jailhouse Rock** stands as one of his most thrilling and enduring. It’s not just a song—it’s a celebration of rhythm, rebellion, and the sheer joy of music, proving why Elvis remains the King of Rock and Roll.
Video
Lyrics
The warden threw a party in the county jail
The prison band was there and they began to wail
The band was jumpin’ and the joint began to swing
You should’ve heard those knocked out jailbirds sing
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Spider Murphy played the tenor saxophone
Little Joe was blowin’ on the slide trombone
The drummer boy from Illinois went crash, boom, bang
The whole rhythm section was a purple gang
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Number 47 said to number three
“You’re the cutest jailbird I ever did see
I sure would be delighted with your company
Come on and do the Jailhouse Rock with me”
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock, Rock, Rock
Sad Sack was sittin’ on a block of stone
Way over in the corner weepin’ all alone
The warden said, “Hey, buddy, don’t you be no square
If you can’t find a partner, use a wooden chair”
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Shifty Henry said to Bugs, “For Heaven’s sake
No one’s lookin’, now’s the chance to make a break”
Bugsy turned to Shifty and he said, “Nix nix
I wanna stick around a while and get my kicks”
Let’s rock
Everybody, let’s rock
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock, dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock, dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock-
