Introduction
“Jailhouse Rock,” performed by Elvis Presley, stands as a seminal track in the annals of rock and roll history. Released on September 24, 1957, by RCA Victor, the song was penned by the prolific songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who were also responsible for other Presley hits like “Hound Dog.” This track was crafted specifically for Presley’s third film, also titled “Jailhouse Rock,” in which he portrayed Vince Everett, a convict turned music sensation.
The recording sessions took place at Radio Recorders in Hollywood on April 30 and May 3, 1957. Leiber and Stoller were invited to the April 30 session, where they collaborated closely with Presley. Their partnership yielded a dynamic and influential sound that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Upon its release, “Jailhouse Rock” achieved significant commercial success. The single soared to the top of the U.S. charts, maintaining the number one position on the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks in the fall of 1957. It also reached number one on the U.S. country charts and the R&B charts, showcasing its cross-genre appeal. In the United Kingdom, the song secured the number one spot for three weeks in early 1958.
The accompanying film, “Jailhouse Rock,” premiered on October 17, 1957, in Memphis, Tennessee, and was released nationwide on November 8. The movie featured a memorable dance sequence choreographed by Presley himself, set to the title track. This performance is often cited as one of Presley’s most iconic on-screen moments and has been recognized as a prototype for modern music videos.
Over the years, “Jailhouse Rock” has garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Rolling Stone magazine ranked it number 67 on its list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” The song was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and is included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.” Its enduring popularity underscores its significance as a cornerstone of rock and roll music.