Jerry Lee Lewis revealed a whole new world of possibilities when he sat at the keys of a piano. Like a wizard, the sound generated as he tickled the ivories was magical.
He recorded 38 studio albums during his musical career, lasting over seven decades. But what were some of the greatest songs on them?
Join us as we dive into Jerry Lee Lewis’ catalog of tunes to discover the cream of the crop.
Let’s get rockin’!
The Story of Jerry Lee Lewis
Jerry Lee Lewis was born in Ferriday, Louisiana, on September 29, 1935. Despite being raised in a poor household, he started playing piano as a child. Musical talent ran in the family, as his cousins include Mickey Gilley and Carl McVoy.
Lewis was fearless in pushing boundaries regarding rules and the sounds he created. His style combined gospel, country, and boogie-woogie with rhythm and blues, which was revolutionary. However, administrators at Southwestern Assemblies of God College weren’t fans.
After attending classes for only three months, Jerry played a rock and roll version of “My God Is Real.” Less than 24 hours later, the school’s dean expelled the future star. Luckily, the dismissal didn’t stop him from becoming one of the most praiseworthy pianists, songwriters, and singers ever.
He performed in clubs in and around Mississippi to gain exposure and cut a demo in 1954. Lewis packed his bags and traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, to get discovered.
Music executives encouraged him to change instruments and consider playing guitar instead. Unafraid of stirring up trouble, Jerry told them where they could stick the six-string.
In 1956, Sun Records signed Lewis, who became a session musician for acts like Billy Lee Riley and Carl Perkins. It wasn’t long before Jerry Lee Lewis gained popularity. He began regularly rubbing elbows with Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison and released one album after another.
Lewis died in 2022 at the age of 87. He leaves behind a legacy that’ll likely live on for many more generations to come.
While the list of songs Lewis played is extensive, we zeroed in on five of his greatest.
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#1 Great Balls of Fire
One of Jerry Lee Lewis’ most famous and successful songs was Great Balls of Fire. It’s a high-energy piece that showcases phenomenal piano skills and vocal abilities. Written by Otis Blackwell and Jack Hammer, Lewis recorded and released the tune in 1957.
The lyrics detail the wild and exciting emotions many of us experience when young and in love. With bouncing bass notes and electrifying work on the keys, it’s easy to see why this tune became a hit.
Greatest Lyric:
You shake my nerves, and you rattle my brain Too much love drives a man insane You broke my will, but what a thrill Goodness gracious, great balls of fire
#2 High School Confidential
High School Confidential is a high-energy piece that Jerry Lee Lewis wrote with help from Ron Hargrave. It blended rock and roll with boogie-woogie piano and hit the airwaves in 1958. We challenge you to listen to it without tapping your toe or bouncing around. It’s nearly impossible.
The song details the thrill and desires of teenage relationships at dances. It peaked at #21 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The Beatles and Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band both covered it during live performances.
Greatest Lyric:
They're boppin' at the high school hop Shakin' at the high school hop Hoppin' at the high school rock Rockin' at the high school hop
#3 Whole Lot of Shakin’ Goin’ On
Roy Hall and Dave Williams wrote Whole Lot of Shakin’ Goin’ On in 1955. However, it was when Jerry Lee Lewis recorded his version in 1957 that it experienced success. The lively piano and distinct vocals made this an almost instant hit.
The message fit the intensity of teenagers’ emotional and physical desires at the time. As a result, many radio stations refused to play it, which likely fed into the rebellious attitudes of the generation.
Greatest Lyric:
Well, I said come on over baby We got chicken in the barn, woo-a Come on over baby Really got the bull by the horn
#4 Would You Take Another Chance on Me
Jerry Foster and Bill Rice wrote Would You Take Another Chance on Me. Jerry Lee Lewis released it in 1971 and took a different approach from his other tunes. This heartfelt and tender ballad departs from rock and roll and combines gospel and soul.
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The song reflects past mistakes and the desire to rekindle a romance that’s no longer. His deep voice connects with the audience as we’ve all made mistakes. The tune also showcases Jerry’s versatility and range as a musician. It peaked at #1 on the US Billboard Hot Country chart.
Greatest Lyric:
Would you take another chance on me? I've paid for my mistake Would you take another chance on me? Or have I changed to late?
#5 Breathless
Breathless is a classic rock and roll song that harnesses the energy of the late 1950s. If it sounds similar to Great Balls of Fire, it’s because Otis Blackwell also wrote it. Fans instantly fell in love with the catchy rhythm and lyrics.
It details the intoxicating feelings that romantic relationships can have on us. You might even feel breathless from the whirlwind of emotions. It’s a bassy and piano-driven tune that helped cement Jerry Lee Lewis as an icon.
Greatest Lyric:
Oh come on baby now don't be shy This love was meant for you and I Wind, rain, sleet, or snow I'm gonna get you baby wherever you go
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Jerry Lee Lewis Lit the Musical World on Fire
Like many musicians, Jerry Lee Lewis was no stranger to controversy. However, his unique style significantly impacted the industry and the future of music. Despite the chaos, he won four Grammys and was one of the inaugural artists inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. These five songs helped him achieve much of his success.
What’s your favorite Jerry Lee Lewis tune? Let us know in the comments!