About The Song
“Roll Over Beethoven” is a classic rock and roll song by the pioneering American musician Chuck Berry, released in 1956. It’s celebrated for its energetic guitar riffs, catchy melody, and irreverent lyrics, which playfully challenge the dominance of classical music in popular culture.
Five facts about “Roll Over Beethoven” by Chuck Berry:
- Tribute to Rock and Roll: “Roll Over Beethoven” is Chuck Berry’s playful homage to the rising influence of rock and roll music in the 1950s. The lyrics humorously depict a desire to hear rock and roll music on the radio, rather than the classical compositions favored by Beethoven.
- Influential Guitar Riff: The song is distinguished by its iconic guitar riff, played by Chuck Berry himself. The riff, characterized by its driving rhythm and blues-inspired style, has become one of the most recognizable and imitated in rock and roll history.
- Chart Success: “Roll Over Beethoven” was a commercial success, reaching number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 2 on the Billboard R&B chart. Its crossover appeal helped introduce Chuck Berry to mainstream audiences and establish him as a leading figure in the rock and roll genre.
- Cultural Impact: The song’s rebellious spirit and celebration of rock and roll music resonated with young audiences in the 1950s and beyond. It has been covered by numerous artists across different genres and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a classic of the rock and roll canon.
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Chuck Berry’s pioneering contributions to music were recognized with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in its inaugural class in 1986. “Roll Over Beethoven” remains one of his most enduring and influential songs, showcasing his talent as a songwriter, guitarist, and performer.
Video
Lyrics
Well, I’ma write a little letter
I’m gonna mail it to my local DJ
Yeah, it’s a jumping little record
I want my jockey to play
Roll over Beethoven, I gotta hear it again todayYou know my temperature’s rising
The jukebox blowing a fuse
My heart’s beating rhythm
And my soul keep a-singing the bluesRoll over Beethoven
Tell Tchaikovsky the newsWell, if you feel and like it
Go get your lover, reel and rock it
Roll it over then move on up just
A trifle further and reel and rock with one anotherRoll over Beethoven
Tell Tchaikovsky the newsWell, early in the morning I’m giving you my warning
Don’t you step on my new shiny shoes
Hey diddle diddle, I’ma play my fiddle
Ain’t got nothing to loseRoll over Beethoven
Everybody, repeat after me
Roll over Beethoven
Roll over Beethoven
Roll over Beethoven
Roll over Beethoven
Roll over Beethoven
Tell Tchaikovsky the news