About the song
If you’re a fan of classic rock ‘n’ roll, then you’ve undoubtedly heard Chuck Berry’s iconic song,”Maybellene”. Released in 1955, this tune is often credited as one of the first true rock ‘n’ roll songs, and it’s easy to see why. With its catchy melody, simple yet effective lyrics, and Berry’s signature guitar riffs, “Maybellene” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
The song’s narrative is a simple one: a boy is chasing after his girl, Maybellene, who’s taken off in a new Cadillac. It’s a tale as old as time, but Berry’s youthful energy and infectious enthusiasm bring a fresh perspective to this familiar theme. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and clever wordplay, painting a picture of teenage life in the 1950s.
One of the most striking things about “Maybellene” is its simplicity. The song is built around just a few basic chords, but Berry’s masterful guitar playing elevates the music to a whole new level. His signature Chuck Berry licks, combined with Johnny Johnson’s driving piano, create a sound that is both instantly recognizable and incredibly catchy.
Beyond its musical merits, “Maybellene” is also significant for its role in the history of rock ‘n’ roll. As one of the first rock ‘n’ roll songs to cross over to the pop charts, it helped to pave the way for future generations of rock musicians. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and countless other bands have cited Berry as a major influence, and “Maybellene” is often considered one of the most influential rock songs of all time.
What makes “Maybellene” so enduring? Perhaps it’s the song’s universal themes of love, loss, and longing. Or maybe it’s the sheer energy and excitement of the performance. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that this song has a special place in the hearts of music fans everywhere.
So, the next time you hear “Maybellene” on the radio, take a moment to appreciate the brilliance of Chuck Berry. His music is a testament to the power of rock ‘n’ roll, and it’s a reminder that some things never go out of style
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Lyrics
Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started doing the things you used to do
As I was motivatin’ over the hill
I saw Maybellene in a Coupé de Ville
A Cadillac a-rollin on the open road
Nothin’ will outrun my V-8 Ford
The Cadillac doin’ ’bout 95
She bumper to bumper, rollin’ side by side
Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started back doin’ the things you used to do
The Cadillac pulled up at 104
The Ford got hot and wouldn’t do no more
It done got cloudy and started to rain
I tooted my horn for the passin’ lane
The rain water blowin’ all under my hood
I knew that wasn’t doin’ my motor good
Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started back doin’ the things you used to do
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started back doin’ the things you used to do
The motor cooled down, the heat went down
And that’s when I heard that highway sound
Cadillac sittin’ like toad on a lake
A 110, a half mile ahead
The Cadillac lookin’ like it’s sittin’ still
And I caught Maybellene at the top of the hill
Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started back doin’ the things you used to do