On October 14th in music history, one significant event took place in 1957 when "Wake Up Little Susie" by The Everly Brothers reached the top of the Billboard Pop chart. This catchy rock and roll tune, written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, tells the humorous story of a young couple who accidentally fall asleep at a drive-in movie theater and wake up long after their curfew.
The song's success marked a major milestone for The Everly Brothers, cementing their status as one of the most influential duos in the history of rock and roll. Phil and Don Everly's signature close harmonies, combined with their energetic guitar playing, created a unique sound that would inspire countless artists in the decades to come, including The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, and The Beach Boys.
"Wake Up Little Susie" faced some controversy upon its release due to its suggestive lyrics, which some radio stations deemed too risqué. Despite this, the song's popularity endured, and it remains a beloved classic of the early rock and roll era.
The success of "Wake Up Little Susie" also paved the way for The Everly Brothers' future hits, such as "All I Have to Do Is Dream," "Bye Bye Love," and "Cathy's Clown." Their influence on the development of rock and roll, folk-rock, and country rock is immeasurable, and their impact can still be heard in the music of today.
In summary, October 14th, 1957, marked a significant moment in music history when The Everly Brothers' "Wake Up Little Susie" reached number one on the Billboard Pop chart, solidifying their status as rock and roll pioneers and setting the stage for their enduring influence on generations of musicians to come.
