About the song
“Wake Up Little Susie,” a timeless classic by The Everly Brothers, is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a snapshot of an era, a testament to the power of sibling harmony, and a song that continues to resonate with listeners across generations. Released in 1957, this track quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on both the Billboard Pop and Country charts, cementing the duo’s status as pioneers of the rock and roll era.
The song’s narrative, while simple, is incredibly evocative. It paints a picture of a young couple caught in a moment of youthful indiscretion, their hearts racing as they realize the implications of their actions. The lyrics, penned by the prolific songwriting team of Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, are both innocent and suggestive, capturing the excitement and trepidation of young love. The Everlys’ close harmonies and clean-cut image made them the perfect vehicles for delivering this coming-of-age tale.
Musically, “Wake Up Little Susie” is a prime example of the early rock and roll sound. The driving rhythm and simple chord progression provide a solid foundation for the brothers’ soaring harmonies. The song’s upbeat tempo and optimistic tone belied the more serious undertones of the lyrics, creating a sense of both excitement and anxiety.
Beyond its commercial success, “Wake Up Little Susie” has had a profound impact on popular music. The song’s influence can be heard in the work of countless artists, from the Beach Boys to The Beatles. The Everlys’ signature harmonies have become a hallmark of American popular music, and their recordings continue to be celebrated by music lovers around the world.
“Wake Up Little Susie” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that encapsulates the spirit of a generation. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia, while also speaking to universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. For those who grew up listening to this song, it serves as a reminder of a simpler time. For younger listeners, it offers a glimpse into the musical landscape of the past.
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Lyrics
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
We’ve both been sound asleep, wake up, little Susie, and weep
The movie’s over, it’s four o’clock, and we’re in trouble deep
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie
Well, what are we gonna tell your mama?
What are we gonna tell your pa?
What are we gonna tell our friends
When they say, “Ooh la la!”
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Well, I told your mama that you’d be in by ten
Well, Susie, baby looks like we goofed again
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
We gotta go home
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
The movie wasn’t so hot
It didn’t have much of a plot
We fell asleep
Our goose is cooked
Our reputation is shot
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Well, what are we gonna tell your mama
What are we gonna tell your pa?
What are we gonna tell our friends
When they say, “Ooh la la!”
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie