About the song
Eddie Cochran’s performance of “Summertime Blues” on Town Hall Party in 1959 stands as an iconic moment in rock and roll history. Eddie Cochran, a pioneering figure in the rockabilly and early rock and roll scenes, brought a raw energy and rebellious spirit to his music that resonated deeply with the youth of the 1950s. His style, blending elements of rockabilly, blues, and rock and roll, helped to shape the sound of an era and influence countless musicians who followed.
“Summertime Blues” was co-written by Cochran and his manager, Jerry Capehart, and was released as a single in 1958. The song quickly became a hit, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and establishing Cochran as a significant voice in rock and roll. Its catchy guitar riff, driving beat, and relatable lyrics about the frustrations of teenage life and summer jobs struck a chord with listeners, making it an enduring classic.
The song’s appeal lies in its clever lyrics and energetic delivery. Lines like “I’m gonna raise a fuss, I’m gonna raise a holler” and the iconic chorus “But there ain’t no cure for the summertime blues” encapsulate the angst and restlessness of youth. Cochran’s vocal performance is full of attitude and charisma, perfectly capturing the song’s rebellious spirit.
Performing “Summertime Blues” on Town Hall Party, a popular country music television show that featured rockabilly and early rock and roll acts, allowed Cochran to reach a broader audience. His performance is notable for its electrifying energy and the way he effortlessly commanded the stage, showcasing his guitar skills and dynamic presence. This appearance helped cement his reputation as a live performer who could captivate audiences with his raw talent and undeniable charisma.
Eddie Cochran’s influence extended far beyond his tragically short career. He was an inspiration to many future rock legends, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who, the latter of which famously covered “Summertime Blues” in the 1960s. His pioneering use of overdubbing and multi-track recording techniques also contributed to the evolution of music production.
In summary, Eddie Cochran’s performance of “Summertime Blues” on Town Hall Party in 1959 is a defining moment in rock and roll history. The song’s success, combined with Cochran’s magnetic stage presence and innovative musical approach, solidified his legacy as a rock and roll pioneer. “Summertime Blues” remains a timeless anthem of youthful rebellion and continues to be celebrated as one of the quintessential tracks of the rock and roll era.
Video
Lyrics
Well, I’m a gonna raise a fuss, I’m gonna raise a holler
About workin’ all summer just to try an’ earn a dollar
Everytime I call my baby, to try to get a date
My boss says, no dice, son, you gotta work late
Sometimes I wonder what I’m gonna do
‘Cause there ain’t no cure for the summertime blues
Well, my mom an papa told me, son, you gotta make some money
If you want to use the car to go ridin’ next sunday
Well I didn’t go to work, told the boss I was sick
Now you can’t use the car ’cause you didn’t work a lick
Sometimes I wonder what I’m gonna do
‘Cause there ain’t no cure for the summertime blues
Ow
I’m gonna take two weeks, gonna have a vacation
I’m gonna take my problem to the United Nation
Well I called my congressman and he said quote
“I’d like to help you son, but you’re too young to vote”
Sometimes I wonder what I’m gonna do
‘Cause there ain’t no cure for the summertime blues
Well, I’m a gonna raise a fuss, I’m gonna raise a holler
About workin’ all summer just to try an’ earn a dollar
Sometimes I wonder what I’m gonna do
‘Cause there ain’t no cure for the summertime blues
Yeah, sometimes I wonder what I’m gonna do
‘Cause there ain’t no cure for the summertime blues
No, there ain’t no cure for the summertime blues