Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s performance of “Johnny B. Goode” during his 1973 Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite concert is a memorable example of his dynamic stage presence and vocal power. Originally written and recorded by Chuck Berry in 1958, “Johnny B. Goode” is a rock and roll classic that tells the story of a young guitarist dreaming of stardom. Presley’s choice to cover the song brought new life to it, infusing Berry’s influential guitar riffs with his own rock and blues style.
The Aloha from Hawaii concert, held at the Honolulu International Center on January 14, 1973, was groundbreaking, as it was the first concert broadcast live via satellite, reaching an estimated one billion viewers in over 40 countries. This historic broadcast highlighted not only Elvis’s enduring global appeal but also the technical achievements of the time. His rendition of “Johnny B. Goode” was among several high-energy numbers he added to his set, designed to captivate both live and remote audiences. This performance showcased Elvis’s mastery in interpreting rock and roll standards while leaving his unique imprint on the song with his unmistakable vocal style and charisma.
Although “Johnny B. Goode” was not released as a standalone single, the song was featured on the Aloha from Hawaii soundtrack album, which topped the Billboard 200 chart in the U.S., a testament to the concert’s success and Elvis’s appeal. His live rendition is still celebrated as a vibrant highlight of the show, contributing to the cultural impact of Elvis’s legacy and the global reach of his music through innovative broadcasting technology.
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”