Song of the Day (4/13/13): David Essex - Rock On

David Essex - Rock On

Rock On is a song that was written and performed by English rocker, David Essex.  It served as the title track for his 1973 debut album.  Rock On is the most famous song by Essex, topping many charts in 1973.  The song reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, while topping the charts on both the Canadian and UK singles charts.  Also in 1973, Rock On was featured in the film, That'll Be The Day, in which David Essex played the lead role.  The song is extremely popular, and is still played frequently on Classic Rock radio stations throughout the country.

The lyrics to the song is one of the main reasons why this song has been admired so much.  Essex pays homage to the significance of early rock and roll and the rebellious youth that followed.  Specifically, he frequently makes references to the ultimate rebel of the 1950s, James Dean.  The musical aspects of this song are exceptionally unique as well.  It features a slow paced vocal performance that is backed predominantly by a bass-driven accompaniment.  A powerful string section and an occasional blast from the horn section make this the quintessential song of nostalgia.  Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the music.

Lyrics:

Ooh
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Ooh, my soul
Hey kids, boogie, too, did ya?
Hey, shout, summertime blues
Jump up and down in the blue suede shoes
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
And where do we go from here?
Which is a way that's clear?
Still looking for that blue jean baby queen
Prettiest girl I've ever seen
See her shake on the movie screen, Jimmy Dean
(James Dean)
And where do we go from here?
Which is the way that's clear?
Still looking for that blue jean baby queen
Prettiest girl I ever seen
See her shake on the movie screen, Jimmy Dean
Jimmy Dean
Rock on
Rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on

Listen to "Rock On" on Spotify: