Little Richard – Good Golly Miss Molly – 1958

About The Song

“Good Golly Miss Molly” is a classic rock and roll song by Little Richard, released in 1958. Known for its high-energy performance and infectious rhythm, the song is a hallmark of Little Richard’s influential contributions to the early rock and roll genre.

Five facts about Little Richard’s “Good Golly Miss Molly”:

1. Energetic Performance: “Good Golly Miss Molly” is characterized by Little Richard’s exuberant and dynamic vocal delivery. His energetic and spirited performance, combined with the driving beat of the song, contributed to its success and enduring popularity.
2. Hit Record: The song was a commercial success, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 4 on the R&B chart in 1958. It became one of Little Richard’s most well-known and beloved hits.
3. Lyric Inspiration: The title and lyrics of “Good Golly Miss Molly” were inspired by the character Molly Brown from the 1884 song “Molly And Tenbrooks” by The Stanley Brothers. Little Richard adapted the name and created a lively, celebratory tune around it.
4. Influence on Other Artists: The song has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including Creedence Clearwater Revival, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Elvis Presley. Its catchy melody and upbeat tempo have made it a favorite for reinterpretation.
5. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Recognition: Little Richard, often referred to as the “Architect of Rock and Roll,” was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. “Good Golly Miss Molly” stands as a testament to his impact on the early development of rock and roll music.

Video

Lyrics

Good Golly Miss Molly, sure like to ball
Oooh, Good Golly Miss Molly, sure like to ball
When you’re rockin’ and a-rollin’
Can’t hear your mama call

From the early, early mornin’ till the early, early night
When you caught Miss Molly rockin’
At the House Of Blue Light

Good Golly Miss Molly, sure like to ball
When you’re rockin’ and a-rollin’
Can’t hear your mama call

Mama, pappa told me
“Son, you better watch your step
If they knew pappa’s, mama
I have to watch my pa myself”

Good Golly Miss Molly, sure like to ball
When you’re rocking and a-rollin’
Can’t hear your mama call, aaahhh

Good Golly Miss Molly, sure like to ball
Oooh, Good Golly Miss Molly, sure like to ball
When you’re rocking and a-rollin’
Can’t hear your mama call

I’m going to the corner
Gonna buy a diamond ring
Would you pardon me, kiss me
Make me ting-a-ling-a-ling

Good Golly Miss Molly, sure like to ball
When you’re rocking and a-rollin’
Can’t hear your mama call