Introduction:
The Everly Brothers, Isaac and Don, were already established stars by the time Wake Up Little Susie hit the airwaves. With their soaring harmonies and infectious energy, they had been churning out hits like “Bye Bye Love” and “All I Have to Do Is Dream” since the mid-1950s. Wake Up Little Susie continued this successful streak, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and cementing the Everly Brothers’ place as rock and roll royalty.
The song itself is a delightful blend of rock and roll and doo-wop styles. The driving rhythm section, courtesy of session musicians like the legendary Nashville Cats, lays the foundation for the brothers’ signature close harmonies. Don’s lead vocals are full of youthful charm, while Isaac’s harmonies add a layer of playful tension. The lyrics, though seemingly straightforward on the surface, caused a stir upon release. The narrative follows a young couple, Susie and her unnamed date, who stay out past curfew and worry about facing their parents’ wrath in the morning.
Wake Up Little Susie‘s controversy stemmed from its perceived ambiguity. In the conservative 1950s, some radio stations refused to play the song, fearing it alluded to premarital intimacy. The Everly Brothers themselves maintained the song was simply about teenage rebellion and the fear of getting caught after breaking curfew. Regardless of the interpretation, the controversy only fueled the song’s popularity, turning it into a cultural phenomenon.
Wake Up Little Susie‘s influence on rock and roll is undeniable. It helped bridge the gap between the earlier rock and roll sounds of the 1950s and the more complex songwriting that would emerge in the following decade. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable story, catchy melody, and the Everly Brothers’ undeniable talent. Wake Up Little Susie continues to resonate with listeners today, a timeless classic that evokes the carefree spirit and anxieties of teenage life.