Introduction:
“Johnny B. Goode” is a rock and roll classic originally written and recorded by Chuck Berry in 1958. However, this introduction focuses on the rendition by Elvis Presley during his “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite” concert. This performance took place on January 14, 1973, at the Honolulu International Center in Hawaii, and it was a significant event in Elvis Presley’s career. The concert was broadcast live via satellite to over 40 countries, making it one of the most-watched televised concerts of its time. It showcased Elvis’s enduring appeal and ability to captivate audiences globally, even after his peak fame in the 1950s and 1960s.
Elvis Presley’s version of “Johnny B. Goode” is characterized by its energetic delivery and his charismatic stage presence. Although the song was not released as a standalone single by Elvis, this performance was later included on the live album “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite,” which was released in 1973. The album, capturing the energy and excitement of Elvis’s live performances, was a commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart, further cementing Elvis’s legacy as the “King of Rock and Roll.”
Musically, “Johnny B. Goode” belongs to the rock and roll genre, blending elements of rhythm and blues with the upbeat tempo and guitar-driven sound that defined early rock music. Elvis’s performance of the song during the “Aloha from Hawaii” concert stayed true to the original rock and roll essence while adding his unique flair. His rendition featured his powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, making it a memorable part of the historic concert.
Elvis’s “Aloha from Hawaii” concert was also notable for its technological achievements. It was the first concert to be broadcast live around the world via satellite, reaching an estimated audience of over 1 billion people. This performance of “Johnny B. Goode” not only showcased Elvis’s musical talents but also marked a milestone in the use of technology in live music broadcasting.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Johnny B. Good”
Way back up in the woods among the evergreens
Stood a log cabin made of earth and wood
Where lived a country boy named Johnny B. Good
Who never learned to read or write at all
But he could play the guitar just like ringing a bellGo, go, go Johnny go, go, go Johnny, go go
Go Johnny go, go, go Johnny go go
Johnny B. Good
His mama told him “someday you will be a man
And you will be the leader of a big band
Many people coming from miles around
To hear your playing music when the sun goes down
Maybe someday you will be in lights saying Johnny B. Good”