Bill Haley & His Comets – Rock Around The Clock

About the song

Bill Haley & His Comets‘ “Rock Around the Clock” is a seminal track in the history of rock and roll, widely recognized for its role in popularizing the genre and shaping the music landscape of the 1950s. Released in 1954, this song marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of rock and roll and remains a defining classic of the era.

Bill Haley, born William John Clifton Haley, was a pioneering figure in the development of rock and roll music. His band, The Comets, was known for their energetic performances and innovative fusion of rhythm and blues with country music, which helped to create the distinctive sound of early rock and roll. The lineup for “Rock Around the Clock” included Bill Haley on vocals and guitar, Johnny Grande on piano, Joey D. on drums, Al Rex on bass, and Franny Beecher on lead guitar.

“Rock Around the Clock” was written by Max C. Freedman and James E. Myers (under the pseudonym Jimmy DeKnight). The song features a catchy, upbeat rhythm with a driving tempo that captures the essence of the burgeoning rock and roll movement. The song’s simple yet infectious melody, combined with its energetic rhythm and Haley’s commanding vocal delivery, made it an immediate hit.

The track gained widespread attention when it was featured in the 1955 film “Blackboard Jungle,” which depicted teenage rebellion and youth culture. The inclusion of “Rock Around the Clock” in the film helped to propel it to massive popularity, making it one of the first rock and roll songs to achieve mainstream success. The song’s association with the film and its appeal to young audiences contributed to its status as a cultural phenomenon.

“Rock Around the Clock” achieved remarkable commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1955. It also topped the UK Singles Chart and became a global hit, solidifying its place as one of the most influential rock and roll songs of all time. The song’s success helped to establish Bill Haley & His Comets as leading figures in the rock and roll movement and opened the door for future rock and roll artists.

The song’s impact on music and popular culture is profound. It is often credited with helping to bring rock and roll into the mainstream and inspiring a new generation of musicians and fans. “Rock Around the Clock” remains a staple of classic rock and roll playlists and continues to be celebrated for its role in the genre’s development.

In summary, Bill Haley & His Comets‘ “Rock Around the Clock” is a groundbreaking track that played a crucial role in the rise of rock and roll music. With its infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and cultural impact, the song remains a quintessential example of the early rock and roll era and a lasting symbol of its influence on popular music.

Video

Lyrics

“Rock Around The Clock”