Carl Perkins was an influential American rockabilly musician known for his hit song “Blue Suede Shoes,” which became a rock ‘n’ roll classic. His innovative guitar style and energetic performances helped define the early rockabilly sound of the 1950s. Perkins’ contributions to music continue to inspire generations of musicians across various genres.
1. Matchbox
“Matchbox” is a rockabilly song originally written and recorded by Carl Perkins in 1956. It became one of his signature songs, known for its upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and lively energy. The song’s lyrics playfully describe a man’s experiences with a fiery relationship and his desire to move on. “Matchbox” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Beatles, who included their version on their album *Anthology 1* in 1995. Carl Perkins’ original recording remains a classic example of early rock ‘n’ roll and rockabilly music.
2. Dixie Fried
“Dixie Fried” is a song originally recorded by Carl Perkins in 1956. It’s a rockabilly track known for its energetic rhythm, catchy guitar work, and Perkins’ distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics celebrate Southern culture and cuisine, referencing popular Southern dishes like “Dixie fried chicken” and “buttermilk pie.” “Dixie Fried” showcases Perkins’ knack for blending country, rock, and rhythm and blues influences, contributing to his reputation as a pioneer of rockabilly music. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, further solidifying its status as a classic in American roots music.
3. Your True Love
“Your True Love” is a rockabilly song written by Carl Perkins, originally released in 1957. It’s known for its upbeat tempo, infectious guitar hooks, and Perkins’ spirited vocals. The song’s lyrics express devotion and admiration for a romantic partner, with a classic rock ‘n’ roll sensibility that was characteristic of Perkins’ style. “Your True Love” exemplifies the energetic and danceable sound of early rockabilly music, influencing subsequent generations of musicians and becoming a popular choice for covers by artists such as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.
4. Honey Don’t
“Honey Don’t” is a rockabilly song written by Carl Perkins, originally released in 1956. It’s known for its lively tempo, playful lyrics, and Perkins’ energetic vocal delivery. The song humorously addresses relationship troubles, with the singer lamenting his partner’s actions and asserting his independence. “Honey Don’t” features Perkins’ signature guitar style and embodies the carefree spirit of early rock ‘n’ roll and rockabilly music. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, including The Beatles, who included a rendition on their 1964 album *Beatles for Sale*.
5. Movie Magg
“Movie Magg” is one of the early recordings by Carl Perkins, released in 1955. It’s a country and rockabilly-infused song that showcases Perkins’ early musical style and guitar playing. The song tells the story of a young couple going to the movies and captures the innocence and charm of mid-1950s American youth culture. “Movie Magg” helped establish Carl Perkins as a talented songwriter and performer in the emerging rockabilly genre, setting the stage for his later success with hits like “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Matchbox.”
6. That’s Right
“That’s Right” is a song by Carl Perkins, released in 1958. It’s a rockabilly track known for its lively rhythm, catchy guitar licks, and Perkins’ confident vocals. The song’s lyrics celebrate life’s simple pleasures and assertiveness, reflecting Perkins’ upbeat and charismatic musical style. “That’s Right” showcases Perkins’ knack for blending country, rock, and rhythm and blues influences, maintaining his reputation as a pioneer of rockabilly music. The song contributed to Perkins’ continued influence on subsequent generations of musicians and remains a classic example of his early rock ‘n’ roll repertoire.
7. Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing
“Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing” is a rockabilly song by Carl Perkins, released in 1956. It’s known for its upbeat tempo, infectious melody, and Perkins’ dynamic vocal delivery. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joy of music and dancing, capturing the excitement and energy of a lively jukebox scene. “Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing” embodies the carefree spirit and enthusiasm of early rock ‘n’ roll, showcasing Perkins’ distinctive guitar style and charismatic stage presence. The song became a popular choice for dancing and has remained a favorite among fans of rockabilly and classic rock ‘n’ roll music.
8. Boppin’ the Blues
“Boppin’ the Blues” is a rockabilly song originally recorded by Carl Perkins in 1956. It’s characterized by its lively tempo, infectious rhythm, and Perkins’ energetic vocals. The song features Perkins’ signature guitar style, known for its catchy riffs and driving rhythm, which became influential in the rockabilly genre. “Boppin’ the Blues” captures the excitement and exuberance of 1950s rock ‘n’ roll, with lyrics celebrating the joy of dancing and having a good time. The song’s energetic performance and infectious melody have made it a classic example of early rockabilly music.
9. Everybody’s Trying To Be My Baby
“Everybody’s Trying to Be My Baby” is a rockabilly song originally written and recorded by Carl Perkins in 1957. It’s known for its upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and Perkins’ spirited vocal delivery. The song’s lyrics humorously describe the singer’s encounters with admirers who are vying for their attention. Perkins’ energetic guitar playing and lively performance style contribute to the song’s infectious charm and enduring popularity in the rockabilly genre.
The song has been covered by various artists over the years, including The Beatles, who included a rendition on their 1964 album *Beatles for Sale*. It remains a beloved classic in rock ‘n’ roll and rockabilly music history, showcasing Perkins’ influence on the genre and his ability to craft memorable, catchy tunes.
10. Blue Suede Shoes
“Blue Suede Shoes” is a rockabilly song written and originally recorded by Carl Perkins in 1955. It became one of Perkins’ most famous and enduring hits, known for its energetic tempo, catchy guitar riff, and iconic lyrics. The song warns against stepping on the singer’s blue suede shoes, a symbol of pride and individuality. “Blue Suede Shoes” was a crossover success, reaching the top of the country and western, rhythm and blues, and pop charts, marking Perkins’ breakthrough into mainstream success.
The song’s popularity led to numerous covers by artists like Elvis Presley, who also had a hit version in 1956. “Blue Suede Shoes” remains a classic in rock ‘n’ roll history, symbolizing the rebellious spirit and youthful energy of the genre’s early days.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
