Rock & Roll: History and Analysis of Artists and Influential Songs

This essay delves into the vibrant history of rock and roll music, highlighting the contributions of pivotal figures such as Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Buddy Holly, each bringing a unique flavor to the genre through their gospel, rock-a-billy, and blues influences respectively. It further analyzes Little Richard's rendition of 'Tutti Frutti,' arguing for its superior soulfulness compared to Pat Boone's version, and examines Rickey Nelson's teen idol status and musical talent. The essay concludes by emphasizing rock and roll's enduring legacy and its continued impact on audiences worldwide, solidifying its place as a significant cultural phenomenon. Desklib provides access to similar essays and solved assignments for students seeking academic support.

Running head: ROCK & ROLL: HISTORY & ANALYSIS
ROCK & ROLL: HISTORY & ANALYSIS
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1ROCK & ROLL: HISTORY & ANALYSIS
The history of rock and roll is full of innovators and superheroes that have exploded an
immense ball of creativity as artists. Rock and roll is a living art and still continues to live in
million’s heart. The following paper consists of three answers of questions regarding rock and
roll music.
Part 1
Rock and roll is difficult to ponder about it without three major names, Elvis Presley,
Jerry Lee Lewis and Buddy Holly. Although they all belonged to the same sub-category they
were different in their own personal way. Elvis Presley has a strong gospel background (Wallace,
2017). He began his career by performing fusions of gospel and Rhythm and blues. During 1952
he had become the model of Rock and roll everywhere. His music had a combination of black
and white sounds. Buddy holly began his career singing Rock-a-Billy which was a mix of Rock
and Roll and country music (Shumway, 2015). While speaking of Jerry lee Lewis, he was one of
those rock and roll singers who were influenced by country and blues. Therefore, although they
all performed under rock and roll their music could be listed under other sub-category also such
as country music, blues and other associate genre.
Part 2
According to me, Little Richard’s version is the better version of the song ‘Tutti Frutti’ as
it has more soul and high sense of quality. As per the song, Little Richard’s raspy voice has
given more life to the song than Pat Boone. Pat Boone was able to be second largest selling pop
artist of 1950s and Little Richard gained popularity indirectly through Pat Boone (Schurk &
Cooper, 2016). Although Pat Boone sold more copies of his version, it is the Little Richard’s
version that is more likeable for the energy and soulfulness he puts in the music. He was a major

2ROCK & ROLL: HISTORY & ANALYSIS
rock and roll artist who was master in the rock and roll genres and made the ‘Tutti Frutti’ song
loved by many including me. Also, the music video is commendable. In a part where Lee Allen
jumps on the piano for the sax solo makes the video enjoyable that people cannot resist from
tapping their feet at the rhythm.
Part 3
Teen age idol was the song performed by Rickey Nelson was on the billboard list for
weeks in 1962. The song ‘hello Mary Lou’ can be categorized as one of the song where the
singers portray themselves in a way to attract teenagers (Hall & Richard, 2013). However, to me
Rickey nelson was a fine singer with talent. He was pretty by face which is often listed above his
talent during the 1950s. His good looks made him a teen heartthrob however it was not only his
charm but also his music. He jumped from the career in TV to music for his interest that was
more into rock and roll.
The above paragraphs answer the questions regarding the rock and roll music. In the end
of the paper it can be easily concluded that from its inception in 1950s the rock and roll music
has entertained millions and therefore until today people remember the artists.

3ROCK & ROLL: HISTORY & ANALYSIS
References:
Hall, D., & Richard, J. O. R. N. L. (2013). Biographical Studies 27 30 37. In Rock Music in
American Popular Culture (pp. 39-55). Routledge.
Schurk, W. L., & Cooper, B. L. (2016). Good Time Rollers: Little Richard and Huey “Piano”
Smith. In Please Allow Me to Introduce Myself: Essays on Debut Albums (pp. 49-54).
Routledge.
Shumway, D. R. (2015). Rock Stars as Icons. The Sage Handbook of Popular Music, London:
Sage, 301-316.
Wallace, M. (2017). Elvis Presley: A Revolutionist. Accessed July, 20.