“Old Time Rock and Roll,” released in 1979 by Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band, is a nostalgic anthem that encapsulates the enduring power of classic rock. While technically appearing on Seger’s 1978 album *Stranger in Town*, its enduring popularity stems from its prominent feature in the 1983 film *Risky Business*, forever linking it to Tom Cruise’s iconic sock-sliding scene.
Bob Seger, a Detroit-based singer-songwriter, had already established himself as a heartland rock icon by the late 1970s. Known for his raspy vocals and blue-collar lyrical themes, Seger captured the spirit of working-class America. “Old Time Rock and Roll,” however, wasn’t solely his creation. The song’s basic structure was brought to him by George Jackson and Thomas E. Jones III, with Seger significantly altering the lyrics. He has not officially received the credits for that.
The song itself is a lament for the perceived decline of rock and roll in favor of disco and other contemporary genres. The lyrics express a yearning for the simplicity and raw energy of earlier rock music, citing artists like Chuck Berry. It’s a celebration of the music that resonated with a generation and a rejection of what Seger saw as passing fads.
Interestingly, Seger initially downplayed the song, reportedly calling it the “dumbest thing [he] ever did”. The public, however, disagreed vehemently. Though it initially only peaked at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100, its *Risky Business* association propelled it to iconic status. It became a staple of classic rock radio, a karaoke favorite, and a go-to song for evoking a sense of nostalgic fun. “Old Time Rock and Roll” may not have garnered prestigious awards, but its enduring cultural impact and widespread recognition far outweigh any chart position, cementing its place as a true rock and roll classic.