Carl Perkins was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist, often referred to as the “King of Rockabilly.” He was born on April 9, 1932, in Tiptonville, Tennessee, and passed away on January 19, 1998. Perkins was a pivotal figure in the early development of rock and roll music, known for his influential guitar playing and his innovative blending of country, blues, and rockabilly styles.
Perkins rose to fame in the 1950s with his hit song “Blue Suede Shoes,” which became a rock and roll anthem and a milestone in the genre’s history. The song’s infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and Perkins’ distinctive guitar licks propelled it to the top of the charts and solidified his place in music history.
Beyond “Blue Suede Shoes,” Perkins had a string of other hits, including “Honey Don’t,” “Matchbox,” and “Boppin’ the Blues.” His songs were characterized by their energetic performances, catchy hooks, and raw, authentic sound.
Perkins’ influence extended beyond his own recordings; he also wrote songs that became hits for other artists, including “Daddy Sang Bass,” which became a number one hit for Johnny Cash.
Throughout his career, Perkins remained an influential figure in the music industry, inspiring generations of musicians with his groundbreaking contributions to rock and roll. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, cementing his legacy as one of the pioneers of the genre.
1. Blue Suede Shoes
“Blue Suede Shoes” is a rock and roll song written and first recorded by Carl Perkins in 1955. It became a significant hit and a rock and roll standard.
Perkins’ original version of “Blue Suede Shoes” is characterized by its lively tempo, twangy guitar riffs, and catchy melody. The lyrics tell the story of a man who warns his date about the dangers of stepping on his blue suede shoes, which he values greatly.
The song’s popularity was further amplified when Elvis Presley recorded a cover version of “Blue Suede Shoes” in 1956. Presley’s version, released shortly after Perkins’, became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and solidifying the song’s place in rock and roll history.
“Blue Suede Shoes” is often cited as one of the defining songs of the rock and roll era. Its infectious rhythm and memorable lyrics have made it a timeless classic, and it continues to be covered by artists across various genres to this day.
2. Matchbox
“Matchbox” is a rock and roll song written and recorded by Carl Perkins in 1956. It was released as a single and became one of Perkins’ most well-known songs. “Matchbox” features Perkins’ distinctive rockabilly sound, characterized by his energetic guitar playing and raw vocals.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is down on his luck and has to pawn his belongings, including his matchbox, in order to get by. Despite his hardships, the protagonist remains optimistic and determined to keep going.
“Matchbox” became a hit for Perkins and was later covered by numerous artists, including The Beatles. The Beatles recorded their version of “Matchbox” with Ringo Starr on lead vocals, and it was included on their 1964 album “Something New.”
The song’s catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and relatable lyrics have made it a classic of rock and roll music. It remains a staple of Perkins’ repertoire and continues to be celebrated by fans of rockabilly and early rock and roll.
3. 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.
The song features Perkins’ signature rockabilly style, characterized by its driving rhythm, energetic guitar work, and catchy melody. Lyrically, “Everybody’s Trying to Be My Baby” tells the story of a man who finds himself pursued by numerous admirers, but he remains loyal to his one true love.
Perkins’ original version of the song achieved moderate success, but it gained wider recognition when it was covered by The Beatles for their album “Beatles for Sale” in 1964. The Beatles’ rendition, featuring George Harrison on lead vocals, helped popularize the song to a broader audience.
“Everybody’s Trying to Be My Baby” has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including rock, country, and rockabilly. It remains a popular and enduring rock and roll classic, celebrated for its catchy melody and infectious rhythm.
4. Honey Don’t
“Honey Don’t” is a rockabilly song written by Carl Perkins, originally released as the B-side to his hit single “Blue Suede Shoes” in 1956. Like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Honey Don’t” features Perkins’ distinctive guitar playing and energetic vocal delivery.
The song’s lyrics humorously recount the narrator’s frustration with his romantic partner, who constantly gives him orders and causes him trouble. Despite the difficulties, the narrator expresses his love and devotion, singing, “Well, you said you was my baby, now I know that you’re my baby / But it seems to me you got rovin’ eye.”
“Honey Don’t” became a favorite among fans of rock and roll and rockabilly music. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, including The Beatles, who included a version of it on their album “Beatles for Sale” in 1964, with Ringo Starr on lead vocals.
With its catchy melody, lively rhythm, and humorous lyrics, “Honey Don’t” remains a classic example of Carl Perkins’ contributions to the rock and roll genre. It continues to be celebrated by fans of rockabilly music and has left a lasting legacy in the world of popular music.
5. Boppin’ the Blues
“Boppin’ the Blues” is a rockabilly song co-written and recorded by Carl Perkins and Howard “Curley” Griffin in 1956. The song was released as a single by Perkins and Griffin, with Perkins providing the lead vocals and guitar.
“Boppin’ the Blues” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, energetic guitar riffs, and lively rhythm. The lyrics celebrate the joy of dancing and having a good time, reflecting the exuberance and optimism of the rock and roll era.
The song features Perkins’ distinctive guitar style, which blends elements of country, blues, and rockabilly. His twangy guitar solos and catchy riffs helped define the sound of early rock and roll and influenced countless musicians in the years that followed.
“Boppin’ the Blues” achieved moderate success upon its release, but it has since become a rock and roll classic, celebrated for its infectious groove and timeless appeal. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a staple of rockabilly and rock and roll playlists.
6. All Mama’s Children
“All Mama’s Children” is a rock and roll song written by Carl Perkins. It was first recorded by Perkins in 1956 and released as a single.
The song is characterized by its lively tempo, catchy melody, and energetic rhythm. Lyrically, “All Mama’s Children” celebrates the diversity and uniqueness of people from different backgrounds and walks of life. Perkins sings about various characters, each with their own quirks and personalities, but all united by the fact that they are “all mama’s children.”
“All Mama’s Children” features Perkins’ signature rockabilly style, with his twangy guitar playing and spirited vocals driving the song forward. The song’s upbeat vibe and infectious energy make it a classic example of the rock and roll sound of the 1950s.
While “All Mama’s Children” was not as commercially successful as some of Perkins’ other songs, it has since become a fan favorite and is regarded as a classic of the rock and roll genre. The song has been covered by various artists over the years and remains a beloved part of Perkins’ musical legacy.
7. Dixie Fried
“Dixie Fried” is a rockabilly song written and recorded by Carl Perkins. It was released as a single in 1956.
“Dixie Fried” is characterized by its lively tempo, driving rhythm, and energetic guitar work. The song features Perkins’ distinctive rockabilly style, with his twangy guitar playing and spirited vocals.
Lyrically, “Dixie Fried” celebrates the Southern lifestyle, with references to Southern culture, food, and music. The song’s lyrics evoke images of the American South, with lines like “Way down south where the cotton grows tall / Old times there ain’t forgotten at all” capturing the spirit of the region.
“Dixie Fried” was a moderate success upon its release, but it has since become a classic of the rockabilly genre. The song has been covered by various artists over the years and remains a beloved part of Perkins’ catalog. Its infectious rhythm and catchy melody make it a favorite among fans of rock and roll and rockabilly music.
8. Your True Love
“Your True Love” is a classic rockabilly song written by Carl Perkins. It was originally released as a single in 1957 and later included on Perkins’ debut album, “Dance Album of Carl Perkins.”
The song’s lyrics celebrate the narrator’s devotion to their romantic partner, expressing a deep and abiding love. The upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Perkins’ signature guitar playing give the song an infectious energy that is characteristic of the rockabilly genre.
“Your True Love” became a favorite among fans of rock and roll and rockabilly music, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Elvis Presley and The Beatles.
With its timeless appeal and irresistible charm, “Your True Love” remains a beloved classic of the rock and roll era. It continues to be celebrated by fans of Carl Perkins and rockabilly music, and its influence can still be heard in contemporary music today.
9. Put Your Cat Clothes On
“Put Your Cat Clothes On” is a rockabilly song written by Carl Perkins. It was first recorded and released by Perkins in 1957.
The song features Perkins’ signature rockabilly style, characterized by its lively tempo, energetic guitar riffs, and catchy melody. Lyrically, “Put Your Cat Clothes On” is a playful and uptempo number that encourages listeners to put on their best clothes and get ready to party.
The title “Put Your Cat Clothes On” is a slang term referring to dressing up in one’s finest attire, often used in the context of going out for a night on the town. In the song, Perkins sings about hitting the dance floor and having a good time, with lyrics like “Put your cat clothes on, baby, let’s go boppin’ tonight.”
“Put Your Cat Clothes On” showcases Perkins’ talent for crafting infectious rockabilly tunes that are both fun and danceable. The song has since become a classic of the rock and roll era and remains a favorite among fans of Perkins’ music and rockabilly enthusiasts.
10. Pointed Toe Shoes
“Pointed Toe Shoes” is a lively rockabilly song written and recorded by Carl Perkins. It was released as a single in 1958 and later included on his album “Whole Lotta Shakin’.”
In “Pointed Toe Shoes,” Perkins sings about a woman who catches his eye with her stylish pointed toe shoes. The song features Perkins’ signature guitar playing, with upbeat rhythms and catchy melodies typical of the rockabilly genre.
While “Pointed Toe Shoes” didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Perkins’ other hits like “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Matchbox,” it remains a favorite among fans of rock and roll and rockabilly music.
The song’s infectious energy and playful lyrics capture the spirit of the rockabilly era, making it a classic example of Carl Perkins’ contributions to the genre.