About the song
“Long Tall Sally” by Little Richard is a landmark track in the history of rock and roll, capturing the raw energy and exuberance that defined the genre in its early years. Released in 1956, this song quickly became a hit, showcasing Little Richard’s dynamic vocal style and charismatic stage presence. The song was written by Robert “Bumps” Blackwell, Enotris Johnson, and Little Richard himself, demonstrating a perfect blend of rock and roll spirit and lyrical creativity.
“Long Tall Sally” was featured on the album “Here’s Little Richard,” which included many of his other hits and solidified his status as one of rock and roll’s founding fathers. The song rocketed up the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Rhythm and Blues Best-Sellers chart and peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success was a testament to Little Richard’s appeal across a wide audience, breaking barriers and bringing rock and roll to mainstream popularity.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a lively character named Sally and her escapades, captured in a fast-paced, boogie-woogie style that was characteristic of Little Richard’s music. With its infectious beat, wild piano riffs, and Little Richard’s unmistakable voice, “Long Tall Sally” became an anthem for the youth of the 1950s and a cornerstone of rock and roll’s legacy.
Little Richard’s performance of “Long Tall Sally” is electric and unforgettable, filled with the energy and passion that made him a true pioneer of rock and roll. His influence can be seen in the work of many legendary artists who followed, including The Beatles and Elvis Presley, both of whom covered this classic track.
For those who lived through the birth of rock and roll, “Long Tall Sally” is a reminder of a revolutionary era in music history. For newer generations, it offers a glimpse into the roots of rock and roll and the immense talent of Little Richard. Whether you’re revisiting the golden age of rock and roll or discovering it anew, “Long Tall Sally” remains a vibrant and essential piece of music history that continues to inspire and excite listeners of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
Gonna tell Aunt Mary about Uncle John
He claimed he has the misery but he’s havin’ a lot of fun
Oh baby, yeah, baby, whoo-ooh, hoo-ooh, baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeah
Well long, tall Sally, she’s built for speed, she got
Everything that Uncle John need
Oh baby, yeah, baby, whoo-ooh, hoo-ooh, baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeah
Well, I saw Uncle John with blonde-haired Sally
He saw Aunt Mary comin’ and he ducked back in the alley
Oh baby, yeah, baby, whoo-ooh, hoo-ooh, baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeah, ow! Oh
Well long, tall Sally, she’s built for speed, she got
Everything that Uncle John need
Oh baby, yeah, baby, whoo-ooh, hoo-ooh, baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeah
Well, I saw Uncle John with blonde-haired Sally
He saw Aunt Mary comin’ and he ducked back in the alley
Oh baby, yeah, baby, whoo-ooh, hoo-ooh, baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeah
We gonna have some fun tonight
We gonna have some fun tonight, whoo!
Have some fun tonight, everything’s alright
Have some fun, have me some fun tonight