About the song
“Wake Up Little Susie” by The Everly Brothers is a timeless classic that encapsulates the innocence and charm of 1950s rock and roll. Released on September 2, 1957, this song quickly became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Pop and Country charts. It was featured on their self-titled debut album, “The Everly Brothers”, which was released in 1958.
The song tells the simple yet captivating story of a young couple who fall asleep during a movie date and wake up past curfew, worried about the scandal it might cause. The lyrics are light-hearted and humorous, reflecting the societal norms and concerns of the time. In an era where reputation and propriety were highly valued, the song resonated with teenagers and parents alike, capturing the cultural essence of the 1950s.
“Wake Up Little Susie” was written by the prolific songwriting duo Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, who were responsible for many of The Everly Brothers’ hits. Their clever lyricism and catchy melodies were perfectly complemented by the harmonious vocals of Don and Phil Everly, whose close harmonies became a signature sound that influenced countless artists in the decades to follow.
The song’s success was not without controversy. Some radio stations initially banned it, fearing the lyrics were too suggestive for the conservative audience of the time. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, the song’s popularity soared, cementing The Everly Brothers’ place in rock and roll history. The controversy only added to the song’s allure, making it a talking point among fans and critics.
“Wake Up Little Susie” also had a significant impact on the music industry. The Everly Brothers’ style, which blended country and rock and roll, helped pave the way for future genres and artists. Their influence can be seen in the works of The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, and many others who cited The Everly Brothers as a major inspiration.
Beyond its immediate success, the song has endured as a beloved classic, often covered by artists from various genres. Its inclusion in numerous films, television shows, and commercials over the years has kept it alive in popular culture, ensuring that new generations continue to discover and appreciate its charm.
In summary, “Wake Up Little Susie” is more than just a catchy tune; it is a cultural artifact that offers a glimpse into the social dynamics of the 1950s. Its blend of humor, innocence, and exceptional musicality has allowed it to stand the test of time, making it a quintessential piece of American rock and roll history.
Video
Lyrics
Wake up, little Susie, wake upWake up, little Susie, wake upWe’ve both been sound asleep, wake up, little Susie, and weepThe movie’s over, it’s four o’clock, and we’re in trouble deepWake up little SusieWake up little SusieWell, what are we gonna tell your mama?What are we gonna tell your pa?What are we gonna tell our friendsWhen they say, “Ooh la la!”Wake up, little SusieWake up, little SusieWell, I told your mama that you’d be in by tenWell, Susie, baby looks like we goofed againWake up, little SusieWake up, little SusieWe gotta go homeWake up, little Susie, wake upWake up, little Susie, wake upThe movie wasn’t so hotIt didn’t have much of a plotWe fell asleepOur goose is cookedOur reputation is shotWake up, little SusieWake up, little SusieWell, what are we gonna tell your mamaWhat are we gonna tell your pa?What are we gonna tell our friendsWhen they say, “Ooh la la!”Wake up, little SusieWake up, little SusieWake up, little Susie