The Roots of Rock ’n’ Roll! Must-Listen Rockabilly Classics and Fan Favorites
Rockabilly, often said to be the origin of rock ’n’ roll.
Born in the United States in the 1950s, this music is characterized by an energetic, wild sound that fuses country music with rhythm and blues.
Its brisk rhythms and simple yet powerful melodies have continued to influence countless artists across generations.
Maybe you’ve heard of rockabilly but aren’t sure which songs to start with.
In this article, we’ll introduce classic and popular tracks that let you fully experience the appeal of rockabilly.
Immerse yourself in these gems where nostalgia and freshness coexist!
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The roots of rock ’n’ roll! Must-listen rockabilly classics and popular songs (61–70)
BIP BOP BOOMMICKEY HAWKS & THE NIGHT RAIDERS
“Bip Bop Boom” was released on several different labels in 1958.
This track by American rockabilly singer and pianist Mickey Hawks was released in South Africa on the Trutone label and reached No.
1 on the Johannesburg charts.
Rockin’ BonesRonnie Dawson
Ronnie Dawson began his music career in his teens.
He later signed with Ed McLemore, who had managed Gene Vincent, and released his best singles, “Action Packed” and “Rockin’ Bones.” He achieved success as a rockabilly guitarist and singer.
We Wanna BoogieSonny Burgess
This is a song by Sonny Burgess released on Sun Records.
It’s turned into a lavish track featuring saxophone and piano.
His distinctive hiccup vocal style is spot-on, making it a wonderfully satisfying number to listen to.
MatchboxCarl Perkins
On the U.S.
release, Carl Perkins’s classic “Matchbox” drew attention because Ringo Starr handled the lead vocals.
While Perkins didn’t perform on the track, he was present at the recording, and under his direction Ringo sang while playing the drums—resulting, in hindsight, in an extraordinarily lavish track.
The Beatles’ own cover was later released as well, so be sure to check it out.
Mule Skinner BluesThe Fendermen
The Fendermen were a duo formed by Jim Sundquist and Phil Humphrey.
The two met in the late 1950s while they were students at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
This song was released as a single by Cuca Records in 1960.
It reached No.
5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was also a hit in the UK and Canada.
Everybody’s movin’Glen Glenn
A song released by Glen Glenn in 1958.
Though very simple, it’s known for its unforgettable two-note guitar pattern.
It’s one of his fans’ favorite tracks.
Bob Dylan has frequently covered this song in concert performances.
That Certain FemaleCharlie Feathers
This is a rockabilly song by Charlie Feathers, sung with a low voice and eccentric shouts—distinctive, captivating, and powerful.
It was used in the film Kill Bill Vol.
1 and is included on the soundtrack.