Jerry Lee Lewis Great Balls Of Fire Piano On Fire
When it comes to legendary rock 'n' roll performers, few can match the energy, intensity, and sheer showmanship of Jerry Lee Lewis. The man known as "The Killer" has been entertaining audiences for more than six decades with his electrifying performances, his dynamic piano playing, and his unmistakable Southern swagger.
One of Jerry Lee Lewis's most iconic songs is undoubtedly "Great Balls of Fire," a rollicking, piano-driven track that has become a staple of rock 'n' roll history. From the moment the opening notes of the song ring out, it's impossible to resist the urge to tap your toes, shimmy your hips, and shout along with the chorus.
The Making of "Great Balls of Fire"
While "Great Balls of Fire" is widely regarded as a classic today, its origins were somewhat controversial. The song was written by Otis Blackwell, a talented songwriter who had already penned hits for Elvis Presley and other notable artists.
When Blackwell brought the song to Jerry Lee Lewis, the singer was initially hesitant to record it. He reportedly felt that the song's lyrics were too suggestive and that it wouldn't be appropriate for him to perform them. However, after some convincing from his producer, Lewis eventually relented and decided to record the song.
Despite the initial reservations, Lewis's recording of "Great Balls of Fire" was an instant hit. The song debuted on the charts in November of 1957 and quickly climbed all the way to the number two spot. It's been a fan favorite ever since, and remains one of Lewis's most beloved tracks.
The Piano Playing of "The Killer"
Of course, one of the defining features of "Great Balls of Fire" is the electrifying piano playing that drives the song. Jerry Lee Lewis was an immensely talented pianist, and his playing style was a key part of his appeal as a performer.
One of the things that made Lewis's playing so captivating was his use of a technique known as "the glissando." This involves sliding your fingers rapidly across the keys, creating a cascading, rippling effect that adds a level of excitement and energy to the music.
Another trademark of Lewis's playing was his use of the piano's sustain pedal, which allowed him to create a rich, full-bodied sound that echoed and reverberated throughout the room. This gave his playing a sense of grandeur and drama that was perfect for the larger-than-life persona that he embodied on stage.
"Great Balls of Fire" Goes Down in History
Over the years, "Great Balls of Fire" has become synonymous with the classic rock 'n' roll sound of the 1950s. It's been covered by countless artists, from Elvis Presley to Bruce Springsteen, and its timeless melody and driving rhythm continue to captivate listeners today.
Perhaps most importantly, though, "Great Balls of Fire" helped to cement Jerry Lee Lewis's status as a true rock 'n' roll icon. His electrifying performances and his innovative piano playing set the standard for generations of musicians to come, and helped to shape the course of rock 'n' roll history.
Conclusion
In the end, it's hard to overstate the impact that Jerry Lee Lewis and "Great Balls of Fire" have had on the world of music. From the song's infectious melody to Lewis's dynamic piano playing, everything about "Great Balls of Fire" seems designed to get audiences up and dancing.
And while "The Killer" may be getting up there in years, his music continues to inspire and excite fans all over the world. So the next time you find yourself tapping your toes and humming along to "Great Balls of Fire," take a moment to appreciate the genius of Jerry Lee Lewis and the enduring legacy of rock 'n' roll.
