In the Key of Adventure: Everly Brothers’ Playful Melody in ‘Wake Up Little Susie’

About The Song

“Wake Up Little Susie” is a classic pop song performed by The Everly Brothers. Released in 1957, it’s known for its catchy melody and playful lyrics. Let’s explore the details of this iconic track.

Background:

  • Artist: “Wake Up Little Susie” was recorded by The Everly Brothers, an American country-influenced rock and roll duo.
  • Release Date: The song was released in 1957 as a single and later included on The Everly Brothers’ album “The Everly Brothers.”
  • Composer: It was written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant.

Musical Style:

  • Genre: The song falls into the pop and rock and roll genres, characterized by its upbeat tempo and catchy hooks.
  • Instrumentation: It features acoustic and electric guitars, drums, and bass, creating a lively and energetic musical arrangement.
  • Vocals: The Everly Brothers’ harmonious vocals are bright and spirited, perfectly capturing the youthful exuberance of the song.

Lyrics:

  • Theme: “Wake Up Little Susie” is a playful song about teenage innocence and curfew-breaking.
  • Narrative: The lyrics describe a young couple who fall asleep at the drive-in movie theater and wake up late at night, causing scandal and gossip in their small town.
  • Emotion: The song conveys a sense of mischief and excitement, as the singers navigate the consequences of their innocent night out.

Cultural Impact:

  • Chart Success: “Wake Up Little Susie” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in various countries, including the US and the UK.
  • Legacy: It’s considered one of The Everly Brothers’ signature songs, often featured in their greatest hits compilations and retrospective albums.
  • Impact: “Wake Up Little Susie” became an anthem of teenage rebellion and romance in the late 1950s, resonating with young audiences and solidifying The Everly Brothers’ status as pop icons.

Conclusion:

“Wake Up Little Susie” stands as a timeless classic in The Everly Brothers’ discography and in the history of pop music. With its catchy melody, playful lyrics, and spirited vocals, the song continues to captivate listeners, evoking feelings of nostalgia and youthful exuberance. As a cultural landmark of the late 1950s, it remains a cherished favorite, reminding us of the innocence and excitement of teenage romance.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the 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 Ma-ma
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

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