About the song
Eddie Cochran’s “Summertime Blues” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless anthem that encapsulates the carefree spirit and underlying restlessness of youth. Released in 1958, this rockabilly classic has endured for decades, becoming a staple in the rock and roll canon and a touchstone for countless musicians who followed in Cochran’s footsteps.
The song’s narrative revolves around the universal theme of teenage boredom and the yearning for adventure. Cochran’s lyrics, penned alongside Jerry Capehart, paint a vivid picture of a young man’s frustration with a mundane summer job and his longing for excitement. The iconic opening line, “Well, I’m gonna tell you how it is, one fine day,” sets the stage for a tale of youthful disillusionment.
Musically, “Summertime Blues” is a prime example of rockabilly’s energetic fusion of country and rhythm and blues. Cochran’s distinctive guitar playing, characterized by his inventive use of double-stops and bends, is a driving force behind the song’s infectious energy. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it impossible not to tap your foot or sing along.
Beyond its commercial success, “Summertime Blues” holds significant historical and cultural importance. It was one of the first rock and roll songs to articulate the frustrations and aspirations of the teenage generation, helping to shape the sound and style of rock music for years to come. The song’s influence can be heard in the work of countless artists, from The Who and The Rolling Stones to Bruce Springsteen and Green Day.
Cochran’s untimely death in a car accident in 1960 at the age of 21 tragically cut short a promising career. However, his legacy lives on through his music, and “Summertime Blues” remains one of his most enduring hits. The song’s ability to resonate with listeners of all ages is a testament to its universal appeal.
Key elements that contribute to the song’s enduring popularity include:
- Relatable lyrics: The themes of teenage boredom, frustration, and the desire for adventure are timeless and continue to resonate with young people today.
- Catchy melody: The song’s simple yet infectious melody is easy to remember and sing along to.
- Energetic performance: Cochran’s passionate vocal delivery and dynamic guitar playing bring the song to life.
- Cultural significance: “Summertime Blues” played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and style of rock and roll music.
In conclusion, Eddie Cochran’s “Summertime Blues” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences of all ages. Its infectious energy, relatable lyrics, and historical significance have ensured its place in the pantheon of rock and roll. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of rockabilly or simply appreciate great music, “Summertime Blues” is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
I’m a-gonna raise a fuss
I’m a-gonna raise a holler
About a-workin’ all summer
Just to try to earn a dollar
Every time I call my baby
Try to get a date
My boss says, “No dice, son
You gotta work late”
Sometimes I wonder
What I’m a-gonna do
But there ain’t no cure
For the summertime blues
Oh, well, my mom and papa told me
“Son, you gotta make some money
And if you wanna use the car
To go a-ridin’ next Sunday”
Well, I didn’t go to work
Told the boss I was sick
“Well, you can’t use the car
‘Cause you didn’t work a lick”
Sometimes I wonder
What I’m a-gonna do
But there ain’t no cure
For the summertime blues
I’m gonna take two weeks
Gonna have a fine vacation
I’m gonna take my problem
To the United Nations
Well, I called my congressman
And he said, quote
“I’d like to help you, son
But you’re too young to vote”
Sometimes I wonder
What I’m a-gonna do
But there ain’t no cure
For the summertime blues