Great Balls Of Fire Jerry Lee Lewis Piano
When it comes to classic rock and roll music, Jerry Lee Lewis is one of the most iconic names. Known as "The Killer," Lewis is a legendary singer, songwriter, and pianist. One of his most famous songs is "Great Balls of Fire," which features Lewis' electrifying piano playing. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the history and technique behind the "Great Balls of Fire" piano piece.
The History of "Great Balls of Fire"
"Great Balls of Fire" was written by Otis Blackwell and Jack Hammer in 1957. The song was originally recorded by Jerry Lee Lewis in Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. Lewis' version of the song was an instant hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song has since become a rock and roll classic, covered by numerous artists.
The song's title was inspired by a comment made by Lewis' cousin, J.W. Brown. Brown saw Lewis playing the piano with such intensity that he exclaimed, "That's a real ball of fire!" Blackwell and Hammer took the phrase and turned it into the now-iconic title of the song.
The Technique Behind "Great Balls of Fire"
The piano playing in "Great Balls of Fire" is nothing short of electrifying. The song is based on a 12-bar blues progression, and Lewis' piano playing is characterized by its speed and energy.
One of the defining features of Lewis' piano playing in "Great Balls of Fire" is his use of the "glissando" technique. A glissando is when the pianist slides their fingers up or down the keys of the piano, creating a smooth and continuous sound. Lewis uses this technique extensively in "Great Balls of Fire," creating a sense of urgency and excitement in the music.
Another important aspect of Lewis' piano playing is his use of arpeggios. An arpeggio is when the pianist plays the notes of a chord one after the other, rather than all at once. Lewis' use of arpeggios in "Great Balls of Fire" adds a sense of complexity to the music, as well as a sense of anticipation and release.
How to Play "Great Balls of Fire"
If you're interested in learning how to play "Great Balls of Fire" on the piano, there are a few key techniques to keep in mind. First, practice your glissandos. Start by playing a simple glissando up the keys of the piano with your index finger, then work on gradually increasing the speed and intensity of your glissandos.
Next, focus on your arpeggios. Start by playing a simple C chord, then practice playing the notes of the chord one at a time. Work on increasing the speed and fluidity of your arpeggios, and experiment with different chord progressions.
Finally, practice playing the song in its entirety. Start by playing the left hand part first, then add in the right hand melody. Work on playing with speed and intensity, and don't be afraid to experiment with different interpretations of the song.
Conclusion
"Great Balls of Fire" is one of the most iconic songs in rock and roll history, and Jerry Lee Lewis' piano playing in the song is a masterclass in speed, energy, and technique. By practicing glissandos, arpeggios, and the song as a whole, you too can learn to play "Great Balls of Fire" and impress your friends and family with your piano skills. So what are you waiting for? Let's get playing!
