Carl Perkins (1932-1998) was an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist, widely recognized as one of the pioneering figures of rockabilly music. His 1956 hit “Blue Suede Shoes” became a seminal rock and roll anthem, influencing countless artists and establishing Perkins as a key figure in the genre. Known for his distinctive guitar style and energetic performances, Perkins was also a skilled songwriter, contributing to the development of rock and roll’s early sound. His career, marked by both critical acclaim and commercial success, continued through the decades, with Perkins remaining a respected and influential figure in the music industry.
1. Matchbox
“Matchbox” is a song written by Carl Perkins and first recorded by him in 1957. Known for its rockabilly sound, the song features Perkins’ signature energetic guitar work and lively rhythm. The track tells the story of a man who is down on his luck and living in a matchbox, using it as a metaphor for his dire circumstances. “Matchbox” became a hit for Perkins and has since been covered by several artists, including The Beatles, who included it in their live performances and recorded a version for their 1964 album *Beatles for Sale*. The song’s catchy melody and distinctive style have made it a classic in the rockabilly genre.
2. Dixie Fried
“Dixie Fried” is a song by Carl Perkins, released in 1956 as the B-side to his hit single “Blue Suede Shoes.” Written by Perkins and his brother Jay Perkins, the song features a lively rockabilly rhythm and upbeat lyrics that reflect the Southern roots of the genre. “Dixie Fried” showcases Perkins’ distinctive guitar style and energetic vocal delivery, capturing the essence of early rock and roll. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody helped solidify Perkins’ reputation as a pioneering artist in the rockabilly and rock and roll genres.
3. Your True Love
“Your True Love” is a song by Carl Perkins, released in 1957. Written by Perkins and his brother Jay Perkins, the song features a classic rockabilly sound with a driving beat and catchy melody. It reflects the style and themes common in Perkins’ music, focusing on love and commitment. “Your True Love” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the country and pop charts. Its energetic rhythm and Perkins’ distinctive vocal delivery helped cement his place as a key figure in the early rock and roll movement. The song remains a beloved example of Perkins’ influential musical style.
4. Honey Don’t
“Honey Don’t” is a 1956 song by Carl Perkins, a pioneer of rockabilly music. The track is known for its energetic tempo and catchy, upbeat rhythm, characteristic of Perkins’ early rockabilly sound. Written by Perkins himself, “Honey Don’t” features a driving guitar riff, strong backbeat, and Perkins’ distinctive vocal style. The song was a popular hit and contributed to Perkins’ reputation as one of the key figures in the early days of rock and roll. “Honey Don’t” has since been covered by various artists, including The Beatles, who included it on their 1964 album *Beatles for Sale*.
5. Movie Magg
“Movie Magg” is a song by Dr. John from his 1975 album *Dr. John’s Gumbo*. The track is a tribute to the cinematic history and culture of New Orleans, reflecting Dr. John’s fascination with the city’s vibrant and diverse arts scene. It features his signature blend of funk, R&B, and jazz, and captures the eclectic and lively spirit of his music. With its rich, textured instrumentation and Dr. John’s distinctive vocal delivery, “Movie Magg” showcases his ability to infuse his music with local color and personality. The song, like much of the *Gumbo* album, celebrates the cultural heritage and musical traditions of New Orleans.
6. That’s Right
“That’s Right” is a song by Carl Perkins, released in 1958. Written by Perkins, the song features his signature rockabilly sound with a lively rhythm and upbeat tempo. The track is characterized by Perkins’ energetic guitar work and charismatic vocal delivery, capturing the essence of the early rock and roll era. “That’s Right” was well-received and contributed to Perkins’ reputation as a pioneering artist in the rockabilly genre. Its catchy melody and vibrant style exemplify Perkins’ influence on the development of rock and roll music.
7. Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing
“Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing” is a 1958 song by Carl Perkins. Known for its upbeat rockabilly style, the track features Perkins’ energetic guitar playing and distinctive vocal delivery. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joy and nostalgia associated with jukeboxes and the music they play, reflecting the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the era. Perkins’ catchy melodies and rhythmic guitar work make the song a standout example of early rock and roll, capturing the essence of the 1950s rockabilly scene. “Let the Jukebox Keep On Playing” is a testament to Perkins’ influence on the development of rock and roll music.
8. Boppin’ the Blues
“Boppin’ the Blues” is a song by Carl Perkins, released in 1956. Written by Perkins, the track showcases his rockabilly style with a lively, upbeat rhythm and catchy guitar riffs. The song reflects Perkins’ energetic approach to rock and roll, blending elements of blues with a driving rockabilly beat. “Boppin’ the Blues” was a notable contribution to Perkins’ early catalog, helping to establish his reputation as a key figure in the rockabilly genre. Its infectious rhythm and dynamic performance exemplify Perkins’ influential role in shaping the sound of early rock and roll.
9. Everybody’s Trying To Be My Baby
“Everybody’s Trying to Be My Baby” is a song written by Carl Perkins and first recorded by him in 1957. The song features a classic rockabilly sound with Perkins’ energetic guitar work and lively vocals. Known for its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, the track reflects Perkins’ signature style, blending elements of rock and roll with blues influences. The song was later popularized by The Beatles, who recorded a version for their 1964 album *Beatles for Sale*. Perkins’ original version remains a beloved example of his contributions to the rockabilly genre and early rock and roll.
10. Blue Suede Shoes
“Blue Suede Shoes” is a classic rock and roll song written and first recorded by Carl Perkins in 1955. The track is renowned for its energetic rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and Perkins’ distinctive vocal style. The song’s lyrics celebrate the iconic blue suede shoes, symbolizing the excitement and confidence of rock and roll culture.
“Blue Suede Shoes” became a major hit, reaching number one on the country and pop charts, and has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, who popularized it further. The song is considered one of the defining tracks of early rock and roll and solidified Perkins’ place as a pioneering artist in the genre.