MU121 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Maybellene, Ida Red, Simple Verse
Document Summary
Easy going style characterized by rolling triplets on piano and smooth vocal delivery. Had series of r&b hits before crossing over. Among first of early rockers to enjoy consistent crossover success. Ain"t it a shame 1955 was number one r&b and crossed over to number 10 during the summer on pop charts. Between 1955 and 1963, he released 37 top 40 singles. Most successful ones were i"m in love again, blueberry hill, and i"m walkin" . Projected warm and friendly image unlikely to trigger racial anxiety in white listeners. Close musical associates thought of him as a country and western singer. His version of traditional country fiddle tune called ida red . Became number one hit on r&b charts and crossed over to number 5 on pop charts in fall 1955. Followed with several more hit singles like school day and sweet little sixteen . Vocal delivery heavily influenced by love of country music.
