[Revival among the youth?] Rockabilly classics and recommended popular songs

Fujiyama MamaWanda Jackson

Fujiyama Mama

Although the exact reasons are unclear, in the 1950s the majority of rockabilly artists were men.

In that context, the first woman to achieve success as a rockabilly singer was Wanda Jackson, who sang “Fujiyama Mama.” Her distinctive sound—a blend of country music and hard-edged rockabilly—gained widespread popularity and influenced many artists.

This work is regarded as one of her greatest songs and a classic standard in rockabilly.

Mystery TrainElvis Presley

Mystery Train

Mystery Train, a classic released in 1953 by blues musician Junior Parker.

While I’m introducing Elvis Presley’s cover here, the original is crafted with a quintessential blues melody.

In contrast, Elvis Presley’s version transforms it into an upbeat rockabilly track with a vastly different vibe from the original.

Elvis was renowned for his arranging skills, and comparing the two versions really showcases the strength of his arrangements.

Rock Billy BoogieJohnny Burnette Trio

Rock Billy Boogie

A signature rockabilly classic, “Rock Billy Boogie.” Released on an album by Robert Gordon, a quintessential rockabilly singer, the song was composed by great rockabilly musicians Dorsey Burnette, Henry Jerome, and Johnny Burnette.

Created by this star-studded lineup, the track is a quintessential rockabilly number, featuring an impressive structure packed with the full appeal of the genre.

Race With The DevilGene Vincent & His Blue Caps

Race With The Devil

Gene Vincent, a singer who is respected by many artists as a pioneer of rockabilly, remained at the forefront from the genre’s early days through the end of its boom.

The song I’d like to introduce as one of his classics is Race With The Devil.

While it’s a somewhat minor track, its irresistibly groovy rockabilly vibe combined with a soothing quality gives it a uniquely captivating sound, earning enduring popularity among hardcore rockabilly enthusiasts.

MatchboxCarl Perkins

Matchbox

On the U.

S.

release, Carl Perkins’s classic “Matchbox” drew attention because Ringo Starr handled the lead vocals.

While Perkins didn’t perform on the track, he was present at the recording, and under his direction Ringo sang while playing the drums—resulting, in hindsight, in an extraordinarily lavish track.

The Beatles’ own cover was later released as well, so be sure to check it out.

Flying Saucer Rock & RollBilly Lee Riley

Flyin’ Saucers Rockin’ Roll

Billy Lee Riley’s classic, “Flying Saucer Rock & Roll.” Riley was known for his powerful vocals infused with blues and country elements, and combined with his raspy timbre, he earned fervent support from hardcore rockabilly aficionados.

Interestingly, this song is also tied to film: a sci-fi short of the same name, inspired by the track, was released in 1997.

Since it’s only a 12-minute short, you might enjoy the song even more if you give the film a quick watch first.

Boppin’ the BluesCarl Perkins

Boppin’ the Blues

The classic song “Boppin’ the Blues,” created by Carl Perkins and Howard “Curley” Griffin, is a beloved rockabilly standard recorded in 1957.

Built on an exceptionally upbeat sound, it showcases the lively groove that defines rockabilly from start to finish.

A remake released in the 1970s also became a major hit.

Notably, the song has been especially popular in Australia, where it once reached No.

1 on the charts.