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50 from the Fifties


Synopsis


This guitar songbook contains 50 classic songs from the early days of rock 'n' roll and rockabilly - songs made famous by artists such as Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Little Richard, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Fats Domino, Eddie Cochran, Gene Vincent and Bill Haley. The songs are ideal for beginner guitarists as well as experienced guitarists who haven't ventured far into the world of 1950s rock 'n' roll before. Most can be played with just 3 chords, and you need only 4 chords to play all 50 songs! These include: 'Blue Suede Shoes', 'Tutti Frutti', 'That'll Be The Day', 'Rock and Roll Ruby', 'Rock Around the Clock', 'Johnny B Goode', 'Be-Bop-a-Lula', 'Jailhouse Rock', and 'Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On'. Each song has been carefully selected and arranged for guitar and is presented over a double-page spread with chords above the lyrics. There is also valuable instruction in how to strum the guitar when playing rock 'n' roll, and a useful explanation of the 12-bar blues chord structure of many of the songs.

Quayle, Jez

Summary

Chapter 1: The Birth of Rock and Roll

* Summary: Explores the origins of rock and roll in the 1950s, influenced by rhythm and blues, country, and pop music.
* Example: "Hound Dog" by Elvis Presley, a blend of blues and gospel that became an iconic rock and roll anthem.

Chapter 2: The Teenage Revolution

* Summary: Discusses the emergence of teenagers as a significant cultural force, with their own values, fashion, and music.
* Example: "Rebel Without a Cause" by James Dean, a film that captured the angst and alienation of teenage life.

Chapter 3: The King: Elvis Presley

* Summary: Explores the rise of Elvis Presley, dubbed the "King of Rock and Roll," whose charismatic performances and groundbreaking music revolutionized the genre.
* Example: "Heartbreak Hotel," a heart-wrenching ballad that showcased Presley's vocal power and vulnerability.

Chapter 4: The Quiet Beatle: John Lennon

* Summary: Examines the early life and influence of John Lennon, one of the founding members of The Beatles.
* Example: "Strawberry Fields Forever," a song written by Lennon that reflects his introspective and imaginative nature.

Chapter 5: The Atomic Teenager: Frankie Lymon

* Summary: Explores the tragic life of Frankie Lymon, a teenage prodigy who had a hit song with "Why Do Fools Fall in Love?" but died prematurely at age 25.
* Example: "Why Do Fools Fall in Love," a catchy and enduring pop tune that highlighted Lymon's youthful vulnerability.

Chapter 6: The Mr. Cool: Paul Anka

* Summary: Highlights the career of Paul Anka, a teen idol who wrote songs like "Diana" and later evolved into a successful singer and songwriter.
* Example: "My Way," a timeless ballad originally written by Anka that became a signature song for Frank Sinatra.

Chapter 7: The Philadelphia Sound: The Four Seasons

* Summary: Discusses the rise of The Four Seasons, a group from New Jersey that popularized a smooth and polished sound known as the "Philadelphia Sound."
* Example: "Walk Like an Egyptian," a catchy and upbeat song that showcased The Four Seasons' signature harmonies and complex arrangements.

Chapter 8: The British Invasion: The Beatles

* Summary: Examines the impact of The Beatles on the American music scene, with their unique sound, songwriting, and charismatic personalities.
* Example: "Hey Jude," a soaring anthem that became a symbol of the Beatles' ability to connect with a global audience.

Chapter 9: The Folk Revival: Bob Dylan

* Summary: Explores the revival of folk music in the 1960s, led by artists like Bob Dylan, who used their lyrics to address social and political issues.
* Example: "Blowin' in the Wind," a timeless protest song that captured the spirit of the civil rights movement.

Chapter 10: The Motown Sound: Berry Gordy

* Summary: Examines the creation and influence of Motown Records, a Detroit-based label that produced iconic R&B and soul music artists like The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder.
* Example: "I Want You Back" by The Jackson 5, a catchy and energetic song that epitomized the Motown sound.