Rock Around The Clock

About

"Rock Around the Clock" is a pivotal song in music history, often credited with popularizing rock 'n' roll. Written by Max Freedman and James Myers (under the pen name Jimmy DeKnight), it was first recorded by Sonny Dae and His Knights in March 1954. However, the most famous version was recorded by Bill Haley and His Comets on April 12, 1954. Initially released as the B-side to "Thirteen Women," it gained little traction until featured in the 1955 film "Blackboard Jungle," catapulting it to global success. The song's impact was immense, becoming the first rock 'n' roll single to top the Billboard charts and remaining there for eight weeks. It features a 12-bar blues structure, an upbeat tempo, and prominent electric guitar and saxophone solos. Influenced by rhythm and blues, country, and big band swing, "Rock Around the Clock" became an anthem for youthful rebellion in the 1950s. Its legacy extends beyond its era, influencing artists like The Beatles and Elvis Presley, and it remains a cultural icon, selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry in 2018.