Why Elvis Presley’s ‘That’s All Right’ Still Resonates Today

Did you know

“That’s All Right” is a legendary rock and roll song performed by the iconic American singer Elvis Presley. It marked a significant turning point in the history of popular music and is often considered one of the pioneering tracks of the rock and roll genre. Here are some detailed insights into this classic:

  1. Origin:
    • The song was originally written and recorded by blues artist Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup in 1946 under the title “That’s All Right, Mama.” Elvis Presley’s version would introduce it to a new generation of music listeners.
  2. Elvis’ Version:
    • Elvis Presley’s rendition of the song was recorded on July 5, 1954, at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. It was a part of an impromptu jam session with guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black.
    • This version featured a blend of blues, country, and rockabilly elements, showcasing Elvis’ unique style and charisma.
  3. Influence:
    • “That’s All Right” is often regarded as one of the first rock and roll songs to gain widespread popularity, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of popular music.
    • Elvis’ energetic and charismatic performance of the song played a significant role in propelling him to stardom. It captured the youthful rebellion and excitement of the emerging youth culture of the 1950s.
  4. Release:
    • Elvis Presley’s version of “That’s All Right” was released as a single by Sun Records on July 19, 1954, with “Blue Moon of Kentucky” on the B-side.
    • The single received airplay on local radio stations and quickly gained popularity in Memphis and beyond.
  5. Impact:
    • “That’s All Right” marked the beginning of Elvis Presley’s legendary career, and it paved the way for a string of hit records that would make him a cultural icon.
    • The song’s success helped solidify the fusion of rhythm and blues with country music, giving birth to the rock and roll genre.
  6. Legacy:
    • Elvis Presley’s rendition of “That’s All Right” remains an enduring classic and is often included in lists of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time.
    • It continues to be covered by various artists, showcasing its timeless appeal and influence on generations of musicians.

In conclusion, “That’s All Right” by Elvis Presley is a historic and influential song that played a pivotal role in the development of rock and roll music. Its fusion of blues, country, and rockabilly elements, along with Elvis’s charismatic performance, helped shape the course of popular music and solidified his status as the “King of Rock and Roll.”

Video

Lyrics

“That’s All Right”

Well, that’s all right now mama
That’s all right with you
That’s all right now mama, just anyway you do
That’s all right, that’s all right
That’s all right now mama, anyway you doMy mama, she done told me, papa done told me too
“Son, that gal you’re foolin’ with
She ain’t no good for you”
But that’s all right now, that’s all right
That’s all right now mama, anyway you do

I’m leaving town, baby
I’m leaving town for sure
Well, then you won’t be bothered with me hanging ’round your door
Well, that’s all right, that’s all right
That’s all right now mama, anyway you do

That’s all right, that’s all right
That’s all right now mama, anyway you do
Well, that’s all right now mama, anyway you do

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