Airdate – Jan 08, 2023

It’s amazing how many songs from the 50s & 60s have gone on to become some of the greatest dance records of all time. Whether it’s a wedding, a special birthday, or another celebratory affair where a dance floor is involved, these songs come to life.

Ironically, the title of a jump blues tune from the late 40s probably best describes these dance floor adventures …

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If you love the dance tunes from the 50s and 60s, its hard to remain seated at events. Songs like “Rock Around The Clock,” “At The Hop,” “The Bristol Stomp,” “The Twist,” “Keep On Dancing,” and “Mony Mony” are just of few of the tunes that have past the test of time when it comes to parading your stuff on the dance floor.

As to that song, whose title best sums up this phenomenon, it was written and originally released in 1947 by a blues singer/songwriter who had a significant influence on the early development of Rock & Roll. In fact, some music reviewers feel strongly that the artist’s original version and/or that of Wynonie Harris is a contender for being the first Rock & Roll record. Harris’ version went to #1 on the R&B charts in 1948.

In addition to this, the record has been covered by many artists, including Jerry Lee Lewis, Ricky Nelson, James Brown, Paul McCartney, the Doors, and Bruce Springsteen. In February 1959 Pat Boone’s version went to #49 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Back in 1954, Elvis Presley’s second Sun Recordings release was a cover of this record. Elvis would often refer to the original artist as one who he admired and was inspired by.

That blues singer/songwriter was Roy Brown, who not only gave us a song that inspired and influenced many future artists but morphed into an expression of musical satisfaction known and used by all generations.

I trust you have heard this news because there’s “Good Rockin’ Tonight,” this week’s Tom Locke moment in time.

YouTube video of this song:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkBTo6u8CNg (Roy Brown)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fx7hLkx0BGw (Wynonie Harris)

This “Moments In Time” story is yet another example of a “golden oldie” or forgotten favorite that earned its place in the evolution of Rock & Roll.