Everly Brothers – Wake Up Little Susie (1957)

“Wake Up Little Susie” is a classic rock and roll song by The Everly Brothers, released in September 1957. Written by the prolific songwriting duo Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, the song quickly became one of the pair’s major hits and solidified The Everly Brothers’ place in the pantheon of rock and roll. Known for its catchy tune and tight harmonies, “Wake Up Little Susie” exemplifies the smooth blend of country and pop that characterized the Everly Brothers’ style and became a hallmark of their greatest hits.

The song tells a straightforward story that’s easy to relate to: two teenagers fall asleep at the movies, and they wake up to find themselves in trouble as it’s past curfew. The narrative captured the imagination of a post-war America that was falling in love with rock and roll and served as a perfect metaphor for youthful innocence and the minor brushes with authority that characterize adolescence. Its story adds a lighthearted, humorous sheen to what must have been, for many teens, a familiar predicament.

One of the key elements of “Wake Up Little Susie” is its distinctive harmony. The Everly Brothers’ close vocal harmonies became their signature sound, influencing countless musicians who followed. The blending of Don and Phil Everly’s voices creates a rich and seamless harmony that is infectious and unforgettable. Their harmonizing helped bridge guitar-based rock with the harmony-focused style of earlier vocal groups, contributing significantly to the evolution of rock music.

The song was not without controversy. Its lyrics, though tame by today’s standards, were considered suggestive enough that it was banned by some radio stations when it was first released, adding to its notoriety and appeal among young audiences. Despite—or perhaps because of—this ban, the song achieved widespread success, reaching number one on the Billboard pop chart in the United States, and it became one of the defining songs of the era. Its success exemplifies how rock and roll culture was beginning to challenge social norms and expectations.

“Wake Up Little Susie” was also a staple of The Everly Brothers’ live performances for decades. Their ability to reproduce their studio sound in live settings contributed to their reputation as consummate musicians. Audience recordings from their concerts reflect the enduring popularity of the song, with fans singing along to every word. The enduring appeal of the song was evident in their 1983 reunion concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London, where it drew a rapturous response from the crowd.

The impact of “Wake Up Little Susie” on music and culture has been profound. It influenced many artists who came after The Everly Brothers, particularly those who were part of the British Invasion, such as The Beatles and The Hollies. The song’s fusion of rock and roll with traditional pop elements set a template that became fundamental in the development of rock music throughout the 1960s. The song also holds a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll, cementing its status as a critical piece of the genre’s history.

In addition to its musical impact, “Wake Up Little Susie” has resonated culturally through its appearance in multiple films and television shows, which have helped keep it in the public consciousness. Its simple yet effective storytelling, combined with its rollicking beat and catchy melody, make it an ideal piece for soundtracks wanting to capture the essence of the late ’50s rock and roll zeitgeist.

Overall, “Wake Up Little Susie” by The Everly Brothers remains a beloved classic, embodying the innocence and excitement of early rock and roll. It’s a testament to the talent of Don and Phil Everly and serves as an epitome of the era’s sound. Today, over sixty years after its release, it continues to be a staple on oldies radio stations and in personal playlists, a timeless reminder of the dynamic and transformative period in popular music history that it represents.