Jerry Lee Lewis – “It’ll Be Me”: A Fiery Rock ‘n’ Roll Anthem
Released in 1957, Jerry Lee Lewis’ single “It’ll Be Me” is a quintessential example of his energetic, show-stopping style that helped define the early days of rock ‘n’ roll. Known for his wild, unpredictable performances and electrifying piano skills, Lewis proved his brilliance once again with this hit. “It’ll Be Me” stands out in his catalog as a track that combines his raw energy with a deeply personal sense of longing, making it a must-listen for fans of rock and roll history.
A Look at the Song
“It’ll Be Me” is a fast-paced rock ‘n’ roll tune that blends elements of rhythm and blues with the emerging rock sound of the time. The song’s catchy melody is driven by Lewis’ trademark piano playing, which here is full of fire and flair. His vocals are brash and passionate, delivering a message of intense devotion to someone who may not feel the same. The lyrics revolve around a declaration of love and the singer’s belief that despite the challenges and obstacles, “it’ll be me” in the end — a confident assertion that his love will ultimately triumph.
Lyrically, the song is straightforward, but it’s Jerry Lee’s performance that elevates it to something special. The energy and conviction in his voice resonate with the listener, making it clear that he truly believes what he’s singing. The intensity in his vocal delivery mirrors the urgency of the message he conveys — a love that’s unwavering and determined, no matter the circumstances.
The Jerry Lee Lewis Style
Known for his rock ‘n’ roll piano skills, Jerry Lee Lewis was a one-of-a-kind performer. His approach to the piano was wild and frenetic, often involving pounding the keys with incredible speed and power. “It’ll Be Me” is a perfect example of his ability to fuse raw energy with technical precision. The song’s driving rhythm is carried by his powerful piano playing, which is complemented by a steady, infectious beat from the backing band. This powerful combination of forceful piano and energetic vocals creates a sense of unstoppable momentum throughout the track.
While his contemporaries, like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry, were also pushing the boundaries of rock and roll, Lewis’ performances stood out for their exuberance and unpredictability. In “It’ll Be Me,” that signature energy is front and center. His explosive style was one of the defining features of his career and helped distinguish him as a rock ‘n’ roll pioneer.
A Milestone in His Career
“It’ll Be Me” was released in 1957, a crucial year for Jerry Lee Lewis. By this time, he was beginning to make a name for himself as one of the wildest and most talented performers in rock ‘n’ roll. Though “It’ll Be Me” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of his later hits like “Great Balls of Fire” or “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” it remains a key part of his early repertoire. The song’s combination of rock, rhythm and blues, and Lewis’ signature piano style helped to solidify his place in music history.
Beyond its commercial success, “It’ll Be Me” is significant because it reflects Lewis’ willingness to take risks and experiment with his sound. It’s a perfect blend of his youthful defiance, musical ingenuity, and passion, and it showcases his evolving sound in the late 1950s rock scene.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
While “It’ll Be Me” may not be as well known as some of Jerry Lee Lewis’ other tracks, it holds a special place in rock ‘n’ roll history. The song’s energetic performance and raw emotion are part of what made Lewis a larger-than-life figure in music. His fearless approach to rock and roll, along with his unapologetic performances, influenced countless musicians who followed.
“It’ll Be Me” also captures the rebellious spirit of the late 1950s and the rise of rock ‘n’ roll as a cultural force. At a time when many rock songs were still heavily influenced by pop and blues standards, Jerry Lee Lewis’ songs like “It’ll Be Me” pushed the genre to new extremes, blending elements of gospel, blues, and boogie-woogie piano into an exciting, unpredictable musical form.
Conclusion
Jerry Lee Lewis’ “It’ll Be Me” is an essential track for anyone looking to explore the early days of rock ‘n’ roll. With its unforgettable piano riffs, passionate vocals, and intense energy, the song is a perfect reflection of what made Lewis such a groundbreaking artist. Though it may not be one of his biggest commercial hits, it remains a fan favorite and a testament to his influence on the rock and roll genre. For fans of rock history, “It’ll Be Me” is a piece of music that perfectly captures the explosive spirit of Jerry Lee Lewis and the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll.
