Bill Haley and His Comets made history on April 12, 1954, when they recorded “(We’re Gonna) Rock Around the Clock” in New York City, marking the beginning of rock ‘n’ roll’s rise to global popularity. The song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the U.S. Billboard singles chart for eight straight weeks in the summer of 1955. Initially recorded as an afterthought during a recording session, the song fused country & western with rhythm & blues to create a seismic event that kickstarted the rock revolution. It was the first rock song heard by millions of people around the world and set a new standard for the genre.
Despite being recorded in just two takes during a rushed session, “Rock Around the Clock” featured a bouncy bass beat, blistering guitar solos, and repetitive lyrics celebrating late-night partying. The song’s infectious energy and catchy riffs made it a fan favorite in live performances before it gained mainstream success. Guitarist Danny Cedrone’s memorable solo, recorded with minimal rehearsal, became a defining moment in popular music history. Sadly, Cedrone died shortly after the recording and never fully realized the impact his work would have on future generations of musicians.
The song’s fate changed when a 10-year-old boy in Los Angeles discovered “Rock Around the Clock” as the B-side to “Thirteen Women” and fell in love with it. The boy happened to be the son of actor Glenn Ford, who starred in the film “Blackboard Jungle,” featuring the song as its soundtrack. The movie’s release in 1955 turned the tune into a rebellious teen anthem, sparking spontaneous dancing in theater aisles and catapulting it to worldwide success. Young audiences, including future Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, were captivated by the song’s energy and rebellious spirit.
In the following decades, “Rock Around the Clock” experienced a resurgence, becoming the opening song for the 1950s-themed film “American Graffiti” and the original theme song for the popular TV show “Happy Days.” The song’s enduring popularity and influence on subsequent rock acts cemented its status as a true classic. Despite other claims to being the first rock song, “Rock Around the Clock” remains a pivotal moment in music history, forever associated with the birth of rock ‘n’ roll. Its legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike, capturing the timeless spirit of youth, rebellion, and the power of rock music to unite audiences around the world.
