Introduction
When it comes to the roots of rock and roll, Chuck Berry is a name that resonates with fans worldwide. His legendary guitar skills, charismatic performances, and timeless songs have left an indelible mark on the genre. While Chuck Berry is most famous for hits like “Johnny B. Goode” and “Maybellene,” his lesser-known gem, “Rockin’ On The Railroad,” is a testament to his musical prowess and the enduring appeal of his work.
The Birth of a Classic
“Rockin’ On The Railroad” is a hidden treasure in Chuck Berry’s vast catalog. This track was released in 1956 as the B-side to “Roll Over Beethoven,” another classic that showcased Berry’s electrifying guitar work. While it may not be as well-known as some of his other hits, “Rockin’ On The Railroad” carries the same energy and signature Chuck Berry style that has made him a rock and roll icon.
The Song’s Composition
As with many of Chuck Berry’s songs, “Rockin’ On The Railroad” features his signature guitar riffs and a rhythm that’s impossible to resist. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a train ride, creating a sense of motion and excitement that’s mirrored in the music itself. Berry’s dynamic guitar playing and storytelling lyrics combine to paint a vivid picture of the adventure of riding the rails.
Chuck Berry’s Distinctive Guitar Style
Chuck Berry’s guitar work in “Rockin’ On The Railroad” showcases the innovative, groundbreaking style that set him apart. His use of double stops, bending notes, and fast-paced solos helped define the sound of rock and roll guitar. His influence on subsequent generations of guitarists, from the Rolling Stones’ Keith Richards to Jimi Hendrix, cannot be overstated.
Legacy and Influence
“Rockin’ On The Railroad” may not have enjoyed the same level of recognition as some of Chuck Berry’s other hits, but it’s an essential piece of his legacy. The song continues to inspire musicians and fans who appreciate the classic rock and roll sound that Berry helped pioneer. His influence can be heard in countless rock and blues songs, and his guitar technique remains a standard by which all aspiring rock guitarists are measured.
Conclusion
Chuck Berry’s “Rockin’ On The Railroad” may not be a household name, but it embodies the spirit and sound of early rock and roll. The song’s driving rhythm, storytelling lyrics, and Chuck Berry’s exceptional guitar work make it a hidden gem in the rock and roll canon. As we celebrate the pioneers of this beloved genre, “Rockin’ On The Railroad” serves as a reminder of Chuck Berry’s enduring influence and his unparalleled contribution to the world of music. It’s a testament to the timelessness of his artistry and the ongoing relevance of his work in the realm of rock and roll.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
In the heat of the day
Down in Mobile, Alabama
Working on the railroad
With the steel-driving hammer
I gotta make some money
To buy some brand new shoes
Tryin’ to find somebody
To take away these blues
“She don’t love me”
Hear them singing in the sun
Payday’s coming when my work is all done[Verse 2]
Later in the evening when the sun is sinking low
All day I been waiting for the whistle to blow
Sitting in a teepee built right on the tracks
Rolling them bones until the foreman comes back
Pick up your belongings boys and scatter about
We’ve got an off-schedule train comin’ two miles out[Verse 3]
Everybody’s scrambling n’ ‘jumping around
Picking up their money
Tearing the teepee down
Foreman wants to panic
‘Bout to go insane
Trying to get the workers out the way of the train
Engineer blows the whistle long and long
Can’t stop the train
You have to let it roll on
