Introduction
“Shake, Rattle and Roll” is a seminal track in the history of rock and roll, originally written by Jesse Stone under the pseudonym Charles Calhoun in 1954. The song was first recorded by Big Joe Turner on February 15, 1954, in New York City. Turner’s rendition became a significant hit, reaching number one on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and number 22 on the Billboard singles chart.
The song’s catchy rhythm and blues style, combined with its suggestive lyrics, made it both popular and controversial. The phrase “shake, rattle and roll” was a colloquial expression that had appeared in earlier songs, but in this context, it carried connotations that were considered risqué at the time.
Recognizing the song’s potential, Bill Haley & His Comets recorded a cover version on June 7, 1954. Haley’s rendition was more sanitized, with toned-down lyrics to appeal to a broader audience. Released in August 1954, it reached number seven on the Billboard singles chart and remained in the Top 40 for twenty-seven weeks.
Elvis Presley, often hailed as the “King of Rock and Roll,” was also drawn to the song’s energetic vibe. He recorded “Shake, Rattle and Roll” twice in a studio setting: a demo in January 1955 during his Sun Records tenure (which remained unreleased until the 1990s) and a more polished version on February 3, 1956, after signing with RCA Victor. Presley’s interpretation combined elements from both Turner and Haley’s versions, infusing it with his distinctive style. He performed the song on national television during the Dorsey Brothers Stage Show on January 28, 1956, further cementing its place in rock and roll history.
Elvis’s rendition of “Shake, Rattle and Roll” exemplifies his ability to reinterpret existing songs, blending rhythm and blues with his unique flair to create a sound that resonated with a wide audience. The song’s journey from Big Joe Turner’s original recording to Elvis Presley’s dynamic performance highlights its enduring appeal and its significant role in the evolution of rock and roll.