About the song
In 1957, The Everly Brothers, a pioneering duo whose influence on rock and roll cannot be overstated, released “Wake Up Little Susie,” a song that would become one of their most memorable hits. Composed by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, this track exemplifies the unique blend of harmony and storytelling that characterized the Everly Brothers’ sound. The song quickly resonated with audiences, reflecting the duo’s exceptional ability to combine catchy melodies with relatable narratives.
“Wake Up Little Susie” was part of their self-titled album *The Everly Brothers*, which played a significant role in cementing their place in the music industry. The song achieved remarkable success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remaining a defining piece of the late 1950s musical landscape. Its upbeat tempo and engaging lyrics captured the spirit of the era, addressing the light-hearted misadventures of two teenagers who fall asleep while on a date, leading to humorous, yet endearing consequences.
The Everly Brothers, consisting of Don and Phil Everly, were known for their remarkable harmonies and their innovative approach to rock and roll, influencing countless artists who followed. Their ability to convey emotion and narrative through their music helped them stand out in a competitive industry. “Wake Up Little Susie” is a prime example of their talent, showcasing their skillful integration of pop and country elements to create a sound that was both fresh and timeless.
The impact of “Wake Up Little Susie” on popular music is undeniable. Its success not only reflected the duo’s exceptional musical prowess but also contributed to their enduring legacy as trailblazers of rock and roll. The song remains a cherished classic, illustrating the charm and charisma that The Everly Brothers brought to their performances and recordings.
Video
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 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
Wake up, little Susie