About the song
Little Richard and the Birth of Rock and Roll
In the 1950s, a new sound emerged from the American South that would change the face of popular music forever: rock and roll. At the forefront of this revolution was Little Richard, a flamboyant, energetic performer with a powerful voice and an even more powerful piano style. One of his signature songs, “Long Tall Sally”, is a prime example of his infectious energy and raw talent.
A Raucous Romp
Released in 1956, “Long Tall Sally” is a rollicking, uptempo tune that practically explodes out of the speakers. Little Richard’s vocals are full of unrestrained passion, while his piano playing is both virtuosic and driving. The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, telling the story of a man who is smitten with a tall, beautiful woman named Sally.
A Pioneer of Rock and Roll
“Long Tall Sally” was an instant hit, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart and number 1 on the R&B Singles chart. The song helped to establish Little Richard as one of the leading figures of rock and roll, and it has been covered by countless artists over the years, including The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and Bruce Springsteen.
A Legacy of Influence
“Long Tall Sally” is more than just a catchy song; it is a cultural touchstone. The song’s energy and excitement helped to define the sound of rock and roll, and its influence can be heard in countless songs that have followed. Little Richard’s over-the-top persona and flamboyant style also helped to break down racial barriers in popular music, paving the way for other African American artists to achieve mainstream success.
A Timeless Classic
“Long Tall Sally” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by music fans of all ages. It is a song that is guaranteed to get you up and dancing, and it is a reminder of the power of rock and roll to excite, inspire, and unite.
Key takeaways:
- “Long Tall Sally” is a rock and roll classic by Little Richard.
- The song was released in 1956 and was an instant hit.
- “Long Tall Sally” is a rollicking, uptempo tune with infectious energy.
- The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, telling the story of a man who is smitten with a tall, beautiful woman named Sally.
- “Long Tall Sally” is a pioneer of rock and roll and has been covered by countless artists over the years.
- The song’s energy and excitement helped to define the sound of rock and roll.
- Little Richard’s over-the-top persona and flamboyant style helped to break down racial barriers in popular music.
- “Long Tall Sally” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by music fans of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
“Long Tall Sally”
Gonna tell Aunt Mary ’bout Uncle John
He claims he has the music
But he has a lot of fun
Oh baby
Yes baby
Wooh baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeahWell, long tall Sally
She’s really sweet
She got everything that Uncle John need
Oh baby
Yes baby
Wooh baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeahWell, I saw Uncle John with bald head Sally
He saw Aunt Mary comin’
And he jumped back in the alley
Oh baby
Yes baby
Wooh baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeahWell, long tall Sally
She’s built for speed
She got everything that Uncle John need
Oh baby
Yes baby
Wooh baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeahWell, I saw Uncle John with bald head Sally
He saw Aunt Mary comin’
And he jumped back in the alley
Oh baby
Yes baby
Wooh baby
Havin’ me some fun tonight, yeahWe gonna have some fun tonight
Have some fun tonight, wooh
Have some fun tonight
Everything’s all right
Have some fun
Have me some fun tonight