About the song
“Little Queenie” is a song written and recorded by the legendary Chuck Berry, one of the founding fathers of rock and roll. Released in March 1959 as a double A-side single with “Almost Grown,” it was also included on Berry’s first compilation album, *Chuck Berry Is on Top* (1959). This track stands out as a quintessential example of Berry’s influence on rock music, both through its infectious energy and its enduring appeal.
Chuck Berry’s career was marked by his ability to craft songs that resonated deeply with the youth of his time. “Little Queenie” is no exception. The song was recorded on November 19, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois. Berry was accompanied by a stellar lineup of musicians, including either Johnnie Johnson or Lafayette Leake on piano, Willie Dixon on bass, and Fred Below on drums. This collaboration resulted in a dynamic and unforgettable track that showcased Berry’s distinctive guitar work and charismatic vocals.
“Little Queenie” features the same melody as Berry’s Christmas hit, “Run Rudolph Run,” released a year earlier. This connection between the two songs highlights Berry’s knack for creating memorable and versatile melodies that could transcend different themes and occasions. In “Little Queenie,” Berry’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a lively dance scene, capturing the essence of youthful exuberance and the burgeoning rock and roll culture.
The song’s impact was further cemented by Berry’s performances in the films *Go, Johnny Go!* (1959) and *Hail! Hail! Rock ‘n’ Roll* (1987). These appearances helped introduce “Little Queenie” to broader audiences and solidified its place in rock and roll history. Over the years, the song has been included in several of Berry’s compilation albums, such as *The Great Twenty-Eight* and *Chuck Berry’s Golden Decade*, ensuring its continued appreciation by new generations of listeners.
Despite its relatively modest peak at number 80 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, “Little Queenie” has garnered acclaim for its powerful and enduring qualities. Matthew Greenwald of AllMusic describes it as an “incredible rock & roll anthem” and “one of the greatest dance/sex ritualistic classics.” This praise speaks to the song’s ability to capture the raw, exciting spirit of early rock and roll, a genre that Berry helped define.
For older and educated audiences, “Little Queenie” is a reminder of the transformative power of Chuck Berry’s music. His work not only shaped the sound of rock and roll but also influenced countless musicians who followed in his footsteps. “Little Queenie” remains a testament to Berry’s genius and his pivotal role in the history of popular music. Listening to this song is like taking a journey back to the roots of rock and roll, experiencing the vibrant energy and timeless appeal that Chuck Berry so masterfully brought to life.
Video
Lyrics
I got lumps in my throat
When I saw her comin’ down the aisle
I got the wiggles in my knees
When she looked at me and sweetly smiled
There she is again
Standin’ over by the record machine
Looking like a model
On the cover of a magazine
She’s too cute to be a minute over seventeen
Meanwhile I was thinkin’
If she’s in the mood no need to break it
I got the chance and I oughta take it
If she can dance we can make it
C’mon queenie let’s shake it
Go, go, go, little queenie
Go, go, go, little queenie
Go, go, go, little queenie
Tell me who’s the queen
Standin’ over by the record machine
Looking like a model
On the cover of a magazine
She’s too cute to be a minute over seventeen
Meanwhile, I was still thinkin’
If it’s a slow song, we’ll omit it
If it’s a rocker, then we’ll get it
And if it’s good, she’ll admit it
C’mon queenie, let’s get with it
Go, go, go, little queenie
Go, go, go, little queenie
Go, go, go, little queenie