About the song
Alright, let’s dive into the classic sounds of Chuck Berry and his iconic hit, “Maybellene“!
Now, for those of you who might not be familiar with this gem, “Maybellene” was a groundbreaking track released back in 1955. It wasn’t just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon that fused country, blues, and what we now know as rock and roll into one electrifying package. Chuck Berry, with his signature guitar riffs and storytelling lyrics, essentially laid the foundation for rock music as we know it.
What’s fascinating about “Maybellene” is how it captured the spirit of the times. Post-war America was entering a new era of freedom and possibility, and the youth were looking for music that reflected their energy and rebellious spirit. Berry’s lyrics tell a tale of a hot-rod race, a love triangle, and the open road, all set to an irresistible beat. You can practically hear the engines roaring and feel the wind in your hair as you listen.
The song’s impact was undeniable. It topped the R&B charts and even crossed over to the pop charts, a rare feat for a Black artist at the time. “Maybellene” introduced the world to Chuck Berry’s unique style – his witty wordplay, his energetic stage presence, and that unmistakable guitar sound that influenced countless musicians to come.
But beyond its musical brilliance, “Maybellene” also holds a significant place in history. It challenged racial barriers in the music industry and paved the way for the integration of popular music. It’s a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious listener discovering this classic for the first time, get ready to experience the magic of “Maybellene.” It’s a timeless piece of music history that continues to inspire and entertain generations of music lovers. Let’s crank up the volume and take a trip back in time with the one and only Chuck Berry!
Video
Lyrics
Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started doing the things you used to do
As I was motivatin’ over the hill
I saw Maybellene in a Coupé de Ville
A Cadillac a-rollin on the open road
Nothin’ will outrun my V-8 Ford
The Cadillac doin’ ’bout 95
She bumper to bumper, rollin’ side by side
Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started back doin’ the things you used to do
The Cadillac pulled up at 104
The Ford got hot and wouldn’t do no more
It done got cloudy and started to rain
I tooted my horn for the passin’ lane
The rain water blowin’ all under my hood
I knew that wasn’t doin’ my motor good
Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started back doin’ the things you used to do
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started back doin’ the things you used to do
The motor cooled down, the heat went down
And that’s when I heard that highway sound
Cadillac sittin’ like toad on a lake
A 110, a half mile ahead
The Cadillac lookin’ like it’s sittin’ still
And I caught Maybellene at the top of the hill
Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
Oh, Maybellene, why can’t you be true?
You done started back doin’ the things you used to do