“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Wake Up Little Susie” is a classic song by The Everly Brothers, released in 1957. It became one of the duo’s most successful hits, capturing the zeitgeist of the late 1950s with its catchy melody and relatable story. The song tells the tale of a young couple who fall asleep during a movie date and wake up late, worried about what people might think. Its blend of rock and roll with country elements helped to solidify The Everly Brothers’ reputation in the music industry and contributed to the broader rock and roll movement of the era.
The Everly Brothers, known for their harmonious vocals and influential sound, were at the forefront of the rock and roll boom of the 1950s. “Wake Up Little Susie” not only topped the charts in the United States but also became a symbol of youthful innocence and the social dynamics of the time. Its success is a testament to the duo’s ability to craft songs that resonated with the youth of their generation.
About The Composition
- Title: Wake Up Little Susie (1957)
- Composer: Felice and Boudleaux Bryant
- Premiere Date: September 2, 1957
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Everly Brothers (1958)
- Genre: Rock and Roll, Country
Background
“Wake Up Little Susie” was written by the husband-and-wife songwriting team Felice and Boudleaux Bryant. The song was crafted specifically for The Everly Brothers, who were signed to Cadence Records at the time. Upon its release, the song quickly ascended to the top of the Billboard pop chart, becoming the Everly Brothers’ first number-one hit. Its narrative, centered on a couple who fall asleep at the movies and face the prospect of social scandal, resonated with the youthful audience of the era.
The song’s success was not without controversy, as some radio stations initially banned it for its perceived suggestive content. Despite this, its popularity soared, reflecting the shifting cultural norms of the 1950s. The Everly Brothers’ harmonious vocals and the song’s infectious rhythm made it a staple of the rock and roll genre.
Musical Style
“Wake Up Little Susie” features a blend of rock and roll and country influences, characterized by its upbeat tempo and catchy melody. The Everly Brothers’ harmonies are a standout element, driving the song’s appeal and showcasing their vocal chemistry. The guitar-driven arrangement and rhythmic clapping contribute to its lively and engaging sound.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Wake Up Little Susie” tell the story of a teenage couple who accidentally fall asleep during a movie and wake up late at night. The narrative explores themes of youthful innocence, social expectations, and the anxiety of facing potential gossip from their peers and parents. The storytelling aspect of the lyrics adds to the song’s charm and relatability.
Performance History
Since its release, “Wake Up Little Susie” has been performed by numerous artists, including a notable rendition by Simon & Garfunkel. The Everly Brothers themselves performed the song extensively during their careers, including on popular television shows and live tours, further cementing its status as a rock and roll classic.
Cultural Impact
The song’s influence extends beyond the music charts, as it has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, underscoring its lasting appeal. “Wake Up Little Susie” has become synonymous with the rock and roll era and remains a beloved classic, often referenced in discussions about 1950s pop culture.
Legacy
Today, “Wake Up Little Susie” continues to be celebrated as a quintessential example of 1950s rock and roll. The Everly Brothers’ impact on music is evident in the generations of artists they inspired, and this song remains a testament to their enduring legacy in the rock and roll canon.
Conclusion
“Wake Up Little Susie” stands as a timeless piece of music history. Its catchy tune, relatable storyline, and harmonious vocals make it a must-listen for any music enthusiast. I encourage you to explore more of The Everly Brothers’ work to fully appreciate their contribution to the music world.
Video
Lyrics
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
We’ve both been sound asleep, wake up, little Susie, and weep
The movie’s over, it’s four o’clock, and we’re in trouble deep
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie
Well, what are we gonna tell your mama?
What are we gonna tell your pa?
What are we gonna tell our friends
When they say, “Ooh la la!”
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Well, I told your mama that you’d be in by ten
Well, Susie, baby looks like we goofed again
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
We gotta go home
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
The movie wasn’t so hot
It didn’t have much of a plot
We fell asleep
Our goose is cooked
Our reputation is shot
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Well, what are we gonna tell your mama
What are we gonna tell your pa?
What are we gonna tell our friends
When they say, “Ooh la la!”
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie