About the song
“Rock Around the Clock” isn’t just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. This high-octane anthem, synonymous with 1950s rock and roll, boasts a surprisingly complex history filled with twists, turns, and undeniable impact.
Our journey begins in 1952, not with Bill Haley and His Comets, but with songwriters Max C. Freedman and James E. Myers (under the pseudonym Jimmy DeKnight). Their creation, originally titled “We’re Gonna Rock Around the Clock Tonight!,” possessed a sound far removed from Haley’s signature style.
The song initially landed in the hands of Italian-American band Sonny Dae and His Knights, who recorded a version quite different from what the world would come to know. Meanwhile, Bill Haley, frustrated by legal restrictions, couldn’t record the track despite its growing potential.
Enter fate. A young mechanic named Tom Whitlock, after fixing Haley’s Ferrari, revealed his songwriting talent. Inspired by a drive home, Whitlock crafted lyrics that perfectly captured the youthful energy and rebellious spirit of “Rock Around the Clock.”
Finally, in 1954, Haley and His Comets recorded their now-iconic version. The session was almost a disaster, with ferry delays and a demanding producer nearly derailing the recording. However, a combination of perseverance and a bit of studio magic resulted in a masterpiece.
While initially a commercial disappointment, “Rock Around the Clock” skyrocketed to fame in 1955 thanks to its inclusion in the film “Blackboard Jungle.” The song’s rebellious spirit resonated with teenagers, becoming an anthem for a generation. It topped charts worldwide, becoming the first rock and roll single to achieve such a feat.
Debate surrounds the song’s true origin. Some argue it wasn’t the first rock and roll record, but rather a white interpretation of a sound established by black musicians. However, its undeniable contribution to the genre’s mainstream popularity cannot be understated.
“Rock Around the Clock” transcended music. It became a cultural touchstone, appearing in countless movies and inspiring countless musicians. Its influence continues to be felt today, with estimates claiming it’s played somewhere in the world every minute.
The song’s legacy is further cemented by its record-breaking sales. Often cited as the biggest-selling vinyl rock and roll single, estimates suggest it sold upwards of 25 million copies.
“Rock Around the Clock” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, a symbol of youthful rebellion, and a cornerstone of rock and roll history. It’s a song that will undoubtedly continue to rock around the clock for generations to come.
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Lyrics
One, two, three o’clock, four o’clock, rock
Five, six, seven o’clock, eight o’clock, rock
Nine, ten, eleven o’clock, twelve o’clock, rock
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
Put your glad rags on and join me, hon’
We’ll have some fun when the clock strikes one
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
When the clock strikes two, three and four
If the band slows down we’ll yell for more
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
When the chimes ring five, six and seven
We’ll be right in seventh heaven
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
When it’s eight, nine, ten, eleven too
I’ll be goin’ strong and so will you
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
When the clock strikes twelve, we’ll cool off then
Start a rockin’ round the clock again
We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight
We’re gonna rock, rock, rock, ’til broad daylight
We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight
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