Who's behind the notes? Discover Elvis Presley: The Definitive Biography
"Jailhouse Rock" is one of Elvis Presley's most iconic songs, and it's associated with some interesting facts:
Film Debut: "Jailhouse Rock" is not just a song; it's also the title of the 1957 musical film in which Elvis Presley starred. The song plays a significant role in the movie, and Elvis's performance of it in the film is often considered one of his best.
Controversial Lyrics: The lyrics of "Jailhouse Rock" were considered controversial for their time. The line "Number forty-seven said to number three: You're the cutest jailbird I ever did see" was seen as suggestive, and some radio stations initially banned the song. However, this controversy also helped boost its popularity.
Chart Success: The song was a massive success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying there for seven consecutive weeks. It also became a hit in the UK and other countries.
Elvis's Dance Moves: The dance sequence that accompanies "Jailhouse Rock" in the film is one of the most famous moments in Elvis's career. His energetic and provocative dance moves caused a stir and have been influential in the world of dance and rock 'n' roll.
Record Sales: "Jailhouse Rock" is one of Elvis's best-selling singles. It has been certified platinum by the RIAA, indicating sales of over one million copies in the United States.
Cover Versions: Over the years, "Jailhouse Rock" has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various movies and television shows. It remains a classic in the rock 'n' roll genre.
Cultural Impact: The song and film "Jailhouse Rock" are considered important cultural artifacts of the 1950s, contributing to the rise of rock 'n' roll as a significant genre in popular music.
Influence on Future Artists: Elvis's style, both in terms of his music and his stage presence in the film, has had a lasting impact on subsequent generations of musicians and performers. His fusion of rock, rhythm and blues, and country music in "Jailhouse Rock" helped define the sound of early rock 'n' roll.
Hall of Fame: "Jailhouse Rock" has received numerous honors and recognitions. In 2004, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, and in 2003, the film was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the United States Library of Congress.
Signature Song: "Jailhouse Rock" is often regarded as one of Elvis Presley's signature songs. It's a track that continues to be associated with his name and legacy, and it remains a favorite among his fans.
These facts showcase the enduring popularity and cultural significance of "Jailhouse Rock" as both a song and a film in Elvis Presley's legendary career.