Carl Perkins was an American rockabilly musician and songwriter, renowned as one of the pioneers of rock and roll. Born on April 9, 1932, in Tiptonville, Tennessee, Perkins gained fame for his 1956 hit “Blue Suede Shoes,” which became a landmark song in the genre. Known for his distinctive guitar style and energetic performances, Perkins influenced countless artists, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and The Beatles. His blend of rhythm and blues, country, and gospel helped shape the sound of early rock and roll. Perkins’ legacy endures as a foundational figure in the evolution of modern music.
1. Matchbox
“Matchbox” is a classic rockabilly song written and originally recorded by Carl Perkins. Released as a single in 1957, the song became one of Perkins’ most well-known tracks. “Matchbox” features a driving rhythm, Perkins’ signature guitar work, and a raw, energetic vocal delivery that epitomizes the rockabilly genre.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a lonely man who feels neglected and compares his situation to a “little matchbox” with no matches left. Perkins’ ability to blend humor with a catchy melody helped “Matchbox” gain popularity and solidify his reputation as a rock and roll pioneer.
“Matchbox” was later covered by The Beatles, who were heavily influenced by Perkins’ music. Their version, with Ringo Starr on lead vocals, appeared on the 1964 EP *Long Tall Sally*. The Beatles’ rendition introduced the song to a new generation and underscored Carl Perkins’ lasting impact on rock music.
2. Dixie Fried
“Dixie Fried” is a rockabilly song by Carl Perkins, released in 1956 as a single on Sun Records. Perkins, known for his contributions to the rockabilly genre, co-wrote the song with Howard “Curley” Griffin. “Dixie Fried” stands out for its energetic rhythm, rebellious lyrics, and Perkins’ distinctive guitar playing.
Musically, “Dixie Fried” features the hallmark elements of rockabilly: a driving beat, twangy guitar riffs, and Perkins’ spirited vocal delivery. The song’s production captures the raw, lively sound that characterized the early days of rock ‘n’ roll, with a blend of country, blues, and rhythm and blues influences.
Lyrically, “Dixie Fried” tells the story of a night out filled with wild behavior and trouble. The song’s chorus, “Rave on, children, I’m with ya, rave on, cats, he cried / It’s almost dawn and the cops are gone, let’s all get Dixie fried,” encapsulates the rebellious and carefree spirit of the era. The term “Dixie fried” implies a state of intoxication or wild abandon, fitting the song’s theme of youthful rebellion and excitement.
Although “Dixie Fried” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Perkins’ other hits, such as “Blue Suede Shoes,” it has been recognized as a classic in the rockabilly genre. The song’s influence can be seen in its numerous covers and its lasting impact on rock ‘n’ roll music.
Artists such as The Cramps and Jim Dickinson have covered “Dixie Fried,” each bringing their own interpretation to the song while maintaining its high-energy spirit. Perkins’ original recording remains a testament to his talent and the enduring appeal of early rockabilly music.
Carl Perkins’ legacy as a pioneer of rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll is cemented by songs like “Dixie Fried,” which capture the raw, unbridled energy of a transformative period in music history.
3. Your True Love
“Your True Love” is a rockabilly song by Carl Perkins, recorded in 1956 and released by Sun Records. Written by Perkins himself, the song is a classic example of the rockabilly genre, showcasing his signature guitar style and blending elements of country and rhythm and blues.
Musically, “Your True Love” features an upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Perkins’ distinctive guitar picking. The song’s arrangement includes a driving rhythm section with a strong backbeat, typical of the rockabilly sound. Perkins’ vocal delivery is energetic and heartfelt, adding to the song’s charm and appeal.
Lyrically, “Your True Love” is a straightforward love song, expressing the joy and contentment of being with one’s true love. The chorus, “Well, you gave me all your lovin’ and your turtle dovin’, all your hugs and kisses and your money too,” reflects the playful and affectionate nature of the lyrics, celebrating the happiness found in a romantic relationship.
“Your True Love” was part of a highly productive period for Carl Perkins, who was recording with Sun Records alongside other legendary artists such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. This song, along with others like “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Matchbox,” helped solidify Perkins’ reputation as a pioneering figure in the rockabilly movement.
Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Your True Love” remains a beloved track among fans of rockabilly and early rock ‘n’ roll. Its infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and authentic rockabilly sound have made it a staple in Perkins’ catalog.
Carl Perkins’ influence on the rockabilly genre and rock ‘n’ roll as a whole is undeniable, and “Your True Love” is a testament to his songwriting talent and musical innovation. The song continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and its role in the evolution of modern music.
4. Honey Don’t
“Honey Don’t” is a classic rockabilly song written and originally recorded by Carl Perkins. Released in 1956 as the B-side to “Blue Suede Shoes” on Sun Records, the song showcases Perkins’ distinctive blend of country, blues, and early rock ‘n’ roll.
Musically, “Honey Don’t” features a catchy, upbeat rhythm with Perkins’ signature twangy guitar riffs and energetic vocals. The song’s structure is simple yet effective, with a driving beat that makes it perfect for dancing. The instrumentation, including the prominent use of the slap bass and crisp guitar solos, epitomizes the rockabilly sound.
Lyrically, the song is a playful and lighthearted take on a romantic relationship. Perkins sings to his love interest with a mixture of affection and frustration, as evidenced in the chorus: “Well, how come you say you will when you won’t? / Say you do, baby, when you don’t / Let me know, honey, how you feel / Tell the truth now, is love real?” The conversational tone and relatable themes of love and miscommunication give the song a charming and enduring quality.
“Honey Don’t” gained additional fame when it was covered by The Beatles. Their version, with Ringo Starr on lead vocals, was included on the 1964 album Beatles for Sale (released as Beatles ’65 in the U.S.). The Beatles’ rendition remained faithful to Perkins’ original, while adding their own distinct energy and style.
5. Movie Magg
“Movie Magg” is one of Carl Perkins’ early rockabilly songs, recorded in 1955 and released by Flip Records, a subsidiary of Sun Records. This track is notable for being one of Perkins’ first recordings, showcasing his budding talent and the elements that would define his influential style.
Musically, “Movie Magg” features the classic rockabilly sound with a lively rhythm, twangy guitar, and Perkins’ engaging vocals. The song is driven by a catchy melody and the infectious energy that characterizes much of Perkins’ work. His guitar playing, in particular, stands out with its crisp, rhythmic picking and inventive riffs.
Lyrically, “Movie Magg” tells a charming story of a young couple’s date night at the movies. The lyrics paint a nostalgic picture of teenage romance and the simple pleasures of going to the local theater. Lines like “Let’s go, cat, go / Down to the picture show” capture the youthful exuberance and carefree spirit of the era.
“Movie Magg” is significant in Carl Perkins’ career as it helped establish him as a promising artist in the burgeoning rockabilly scene. Although it was not a major hit at the time, the song laid the groundwork for Perkins’ later success and showcased his distinctive blend of country, blues, and rock influences.
The recording session for “Movie Magg” featured Carl Perkins on guitar and vocals, his brothers Jay and Clayton Perkins on rhythm guitar and bass, and W.S. “Fluke” Holland on drums. This lineup would become known for their tight, cohesive sound and would go on to record many of Perkins’ classic hits.
“Movie Magg” remains a beloved track among rockabilly enthusiasts and a testament to Carl Perkins’ early contributions to the genre. It exemplifies the raw energy and youthful optimism of 1950s rock ‘n’ roll, highlighting Perkins’ role as one of its pioneering figures.
6. That’s Right
“That’s Right” is a song by Carl Perkins, showcasing his distinctive rockabilly style. Released in the late 1950s, the track features Perkins’ signature blend of rhythm and blues with a country twist. The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and Perkins’ energetic vocal delivery. “That’s Right” exemplifies the raw, authentic sound that Perkins brought to rock and roll, further cementing his status as a pioneer in the genre. His influence is evident in the way the song captures the rebellious spirit and infectious energy that defined early rock and roll music.
7. Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing
“Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing” is a song by Carl Perkins, released in 1955. This track stands out from Perkins’ typical rockabilly hits, as it leans more towards a country ballad. The song features a heartfelt melody and reflective lyrics, showcasing Perkins’ versatility as an artist. With its smooth rhythm and emotional depth, “Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing” highlights Perkins’ ability to blend different musical styles. This song is a testament to his talent in creating music that resonates with a wide audience, contributing to his lasting legacy in both country and rock and roll genres.
8. Boppin’ the Blues
“Boppin’ the Blues” is a rockabilly song by Carl Perkins, released in 1956 on Sun Records. This track further solidified Perkins’ reputation as a pioneering figure in the rockabilly genre, following the success of his hit “Blue Suede Shoes.”
Musically, “Boppin’ the Blues” features the energetic and infectious sound characteristic of Perkins’ work. The song includes a driving rhythm, lively guitar riffs, and Perkins’ distinctive vocal style. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a quintessential rockabilly track that captures the excitement and rebellious spirit of the 1950s.
The lyrics of “Boppin’ the Blues” celebrate the joy of dancing and having a good time, with lines like “Well, all my friends are boppin’ the blues, it must be goin’ ’round.” The song’s carefree and fun-loving message resonated with the youth of the era, reflecting the cultural shift towards more liberated and expressive forms of entertainment.
“Boppin’ the Blues” was recorded with Perkins’ band, which included his brothers Jay on rhythm guitar and Clayton on bass, along with W.S. “Fluke” Holland on drums. Their tight and cohesive sound, combined with Perkins’ innovative guitar playing, created a track that has endured as a rockabilly classic.
Although it did not achieve the same level of commercial success as “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Boppin’ the Blues” remains an important part of Carl Perkins’ musical legacy. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, attesting to its lasting influence and appeal.
Carl Perkins’ contributions to rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll are widely recognized, and “Boppin’ the Blues” exemplifies his ability to blend country, blues, and rock elements into a unique and compelling sound. The song continues to be celebrated for its role in shaping the early rock ‘n’ roll landscape and for its enduring charm and vitality.
9. Everybody’s Trying To Be My Baby
“Everybody’s Trying to Be My Baby” is a rockabilly song written by Carl Perkins. It was first recorded and released by Perkins in 1957 as the final track on his debut album, *Dance Album of Carl Perkins*. The song is noted for its upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and Perkins’ energetic vocal performance, embodying the rockabilly style that he helped pioneer. The lyrics humorously describe the singer’s newfound popularity and the attention he’s receiving from everyone around him.
The song gained further recognition when it was covered by The Beatles, featuring George Harrison on lead vocals. Their version, included on the 1964 album *Beatles for Sale*, helped to cement the song’s place in rock and roll history. “Everybody’s Trying to Be My Baby” remains a classic example of Carl Perkins’ influence on the genre and his ability to craft memorable, enduring music.
10. Blue Suede Shoes
“Blue Suede Shoes” is one of Carl Perkins’ most famous and influential songs. Released in 1956 on Sun Records, the track became a seminal rock and roll hit, encapsulating the rebellious spirit of the era and cementing Perkins’ place in music history.
Musically, “Blue Suede Shoes” is a quintessential rockabilly song with a driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and Perkins’ distinctive vocal delivery. The song’s energetic beat and memorable melody helped it quickly gain popularity among the burgeoning rock and roll audience.
Lyrically, the song tells the story of a man who values his blue suede shoes above all else, with lines like “Well, you can knock me down, step in my face, slander my name all over the place / Do anything that you want to do, but uh-uh, honey, lay off of my shoes.” The lyrics humorously emphasize the importance of personal style and self-expression, resonating with the youthful audience of the 1950s.
“Blue Suede Shoes” was a significant success for Carl Perkins, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the country charts. It became one of the first songs to chart on pop, country, and R&B charts simultaneously, highlighting its wide appeal.
The song’s popularity also led to numerous covers by other artists, most notably by Elvis Presley. Presley’s version further popularized the song and helped to cement its status as a rock and roll classic. While both versions are celebrated, Perkins’ original recording is often praised for its raw energy and authenticity.
The legacy of “Blue Suede Shoes” extends beyond its chart success. It is considered one of the foundational tracks of rock and roll, influencing countless musicians and shaping the sound of the genre. Carl Perkins’ innovative guitar work and charismatic performance on the track have left a lasting impact on the music world.
Today, “Blue Suede Shoes” remains a beloved classic, frequently covered and referenced in popular culture. It stands as a testament to Carl Perkins’ talent and his pivotal role in the development of rock and roll music.