Introduction
“Shake, Rattle and Roll” is a seminal track in the history of rock and roll, originally written by Jesse Stone under the pseudonym Charles E. Calhoun in 1954. The song was first recorded by Big Joe Turner, a prominent blues shouter, on February 15, 1954, in New York City. Turner’s rendition, characterized by its energetic rhythm and suggestive lyrics, reached number one on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and number 22 on the Billboard singles chart, cementing its place as a rhythm and blues classic.
Later that same year, Bill Haley & His Comets released their own version of “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” recorded on June 7, 1954. Haley’s interpretation featured modified lyrics to make them more suitable for a broader audience and a more upbeat tempo, aligning with the emerging rock and roll style. This version achieved significant success, reaching number seven on the Billboard singles chart and spending twenty-seven weeks in the Top 40.
Elvis Presley, often hailed as the King of Rock and Roll, brought his unique flair to “Shake, Rattle and Roll” with two notable recordings. The first was a demo recorded in early 1955 at the Cotton Club in Lubbock, Texas, during his tenure with Sun Records. This raw and energetic version wasn’t officially released until the 1990s but offers insight into Presley’s early style and musical influences.
Presley’s second and more prominent recording took place on February 3, 1956, at RCA Studios in New York. This session featured his core band members: guitarist Scotty Moore, bassist Bill Black, and drummer D.J. Fontana. The rendition combined elements from both Turner’s and Haley’s versions, blending the original’s bluesy feel with a rockabilly twist. Although this recording didn’t chart as a single, it was later included in the compilation album “For LP Fans Only,” released in February 1959.
On January 28, 1956, Elvis made his national television debut on the Dorsey Brothers’ “Stage Show,” where he performed “Shake, Rattle and Roll” in a medley with “Flip, Flop and Fly.” This performance showcased Presley’s dynamic stage presence and played a pivotal role in catapulting him to stardom. The fusion of his charismatic delivery and the song’s infectious rhythm captivated audiences, marking a significant moment in the evolution of rock and roll.
Elvis Presley’s interpretations of “Shake, Rattle and Roll” exemplify his ability to infuse rhythm and blues standards with his distinctive rock and roll style. These recordings not only highlight his versatility as an artist but also underscore the song’s enduring influence in the tapestry of American music history.