About the song
Jerry Lee Lewis’s 1958 hit “Breathless” exemplifies the exuberance and raw energy that characterized his pioneering contributions to rock and roll. Known for his flamboyant stage presence and electrifying performances, Lewis carved out a unique niche in the rock and roll genre, blending country roots with the burgeoning rock sound of the era.
“Breathless,” written by the songwriting duo Otis Blackwell and Jack Hammer, was released as a single in August 1958. The track showcases Lewis’s dynamic piano skills and his trademark vocal intensity, which had already begun to make waves with earlier hits such as “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” and “Great Balls of Fire.” “Breathless” continued this trend, highlighting his ability to convey both passion and urgency through his music.
This song was a commercial success, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot R&B Sides chart. It stands out not only for its catchy melody and compelling rhythm but also for its representation of the rock and roll genre’s early years. The energetic and somewhat frantic style of “Breathless” captures the spirit of rock and roll’s golden age, making it a quintessential example of Jerry Lee Lewis’s influence on the genre.
The track was featured on Lewis’s self-titled album, *Jerry Lee Lewis*, which helped solidify his status as a rock and roll icon. The album itself was a reflection of Lewis’s eclectic style, encompassing a range of energetic rock and roll tracks alongside more contemplative ballads.
“Breathless” remains a significant part of Jerry Lee Lewis’s legacy, illustrating his innovative approach to music and his ability to infuse rock and roll with a sense of wild, infectious enthusiasm. The song’s lasting appeal is a testament to Lewis’s role in shaping the sound of rock and roll and his influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
In conclusion, Jerry Lee Lewis’s “Breathless” is more than just a hit song; it is a vibrant piece of rock and roll history that captures the essence of Lewis’s groundbreaking style. Its energetic rhythm and passionate delivery continue to resonate with audiences, underscoring Lewis’s enduring impact on the music world.
Video
Lyrics
BREATHLESS
Writer Otis Blackwell
If you love me please don’t tease if I can hold then let me squeeze
My heart goes round and round my love comes a tumblin’ down
You leave me aaah breathless ah
Oh I shake all over honey you know why I am sure love honey it ain’t no no lie
Cause when you call my name you know honey I burn like a wooden flame
You leave me ooh breathless ah ooh baby ooh crazy
Honey you’re much too much you know I can’t love you enough
Well it’s alright to hold me tight but when you love me love me right
Oh come on baby now don’t be shy this love was ment for you and I
Wind rain sleet or snow I’m gonna get you baby wherever you go
You have leave me aaah breathless ah
ell ooh baby brrr crazy your much to much I can’t love you enough
Well it’s alright to hold me tight but when you love me love me right
Ah come on baby now don’t be shy this love was ment for you and I
Wind rain sleet or snow honey Jerry’s gonna get you wherever you go
You leave me aaah breathless ah