“Susie Q” by Dale Hawkins is a key song in the rockabilly and swamp rock styles. It captures the lively vibe of 1950s music. Released in 1957, this song not only put Hawkins on the map in rock and roll but also highlighted James Burton’s amazing guitar skills.
Hawkins was deeply influenced by his Louisiana roots in creating “Susie Q.” Before his music career, he worked at Stan’s Record Shop in Shreveport, Louisiana. There, encouraged by the shop’s owner Stan Lewis, who also scouted talent for Chess Records, he started his journey in music.
“Susie Q” marked a major moment in Dale Hawkins rock music. It connected with listeners and left a mark on the rockabilly era. Even though Hawkins liked to think of his music as more blues, “Susie Q” has a special Louisiana touch. Creedence Clearwater Revival covered the song in 1968, showing its big influence.
Key Takeaways
- “Susie Q” by Dale Hawkins was released in 1957 and became a definitive track in early rock and roll.
- Dale Hawkins worked at Stan’s Record Shop in Louisiana, which was pivotal in his music career.
- The guitar work by James Burton on “Susie Q” is highly regarded.
- Hawkins considered himself more of a bluesman than a rockabilly artist.
- The song heavily influenced bands like Creedence Clearwater Revival.
The Origins of “Susie Q”
“Susie Q” has an interesting backstory, coming to life in the 1950s. It has roots in Louisiana, known for its rich rockabilly scene.
The Inspiration Behind Susie Q
The song was a joint effort by Dale Hawkins and Robert Chaisson. They were inspired by Susan Lewis, whose dad was a record distributor. This meeting led to the catchy “Susie Q” we enjoy today.
The Songwriting Process
The magic happened at KWKH Radio Studio in Shreveport, Louisiana. With Hawkins’ talent and James Burton’s amazing guitar skills, the song came to life.
Initial Recording
Recording “Susie Q” in 1957 was electric, filled with rockabilly’s energy. It quickly became iconic, beloved by fans and musicians. Because of its unique sound and creativity, it influenced many versions by famous bands like The Rolling Stones and Creedence Clearwater Revival.
To learn more about this iconic song, visit Susie Q on Wikipedia.
Recording and Release of Susie Q by Dale Hawkins
Dale Hawkins’ recording of Susie Q is a landmark in rock music. It was made at the KWKH Radio Studio in 1957. This song introduced swamp rock to the world. Dale Hawkins’ classic Susie Q song quickly caught everyone’s attention, reshaping the music landscape.
Checker Records noticed its potential and released Susie Q as a single right away. James Burton, the session guitarist, used new guitar methods. The song brought a new sound that was exciting and dynamic.
After its release, Dale Hawkins’ Susie Q song hit number 7 on the R&B chart and 27 on the Hot 100. In Canada, it reached number 16 on the CHUM Charts, proving it was a hit. This led to the 1958 album, Susie Q, which had 24 songs including “Susie-Q”.
Hawkins continued to record different versions of Susie Q in late ’56 and early ’57. His work after “Susie Q” included tracks like “Baby, Baby” and “Mrs. Merguitory’s Daughter.” Yet, it was “Susie Q” that truly changed the music scene.
Chart Success and Recognition
The release of “Susie Q” was a key moment for Dale Hawkins. It helped him get into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Chart Performance
“Susie Q” was a hit in 1957. It reached number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number seven on the R&B chart. It stayed on the pop chart for nineteen weeks. This showed how much people loved the song. Even though Dale Hawkins only had four hits, “Susie Q” made him well-known. Chess Records helped make “Susie Q” popular when other labels were not focusing on the new music styles.
Hall of Fame and Influence
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recognizes “Susie Q” as one of the “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll”. Dale Hawkins became more than just a singer. He produced music for Joe Stampley, The Five Americans, and Bruce Channel. His work reached beyond his own performances. His album “L.A., Memphis & Tyler, Texas” was highly praised. It was ranked No. 8 in the reissue category by Mojo magazine. In October 2007, he was honored by the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. This highlighted his lasting effect on American music.
The Role of James Burton’s Guitar Work
James Burton left a huge mark on rock and roll with his work on the song “Susie Q.” At just 15, his guitar style introduced new riffs and rockabilly moves. This shaped the song and forever changed the genre.
James Burton’s Contribution
James Burton started his journey in Shreveport, Louisiana, at 15. His guitar skills were beyond ordinary. His riffs set “Susie Q” apart and raised the bar in rock music. Burton’s guitar influences lasted throughout his career.
Post Susie Q Career
After “Susie Q,” Burton worked with famous artists and evolved his style. He is known for working with Elvis Presley, starting with “Viva Las Vegas.” In 1970, Burton and Presley made magic in Nashville. They produced hits like “Fools Rush In.”
Burton also made waves with covers of Bob Dylan’s and Hank Williams’ songs. His work spanned various music genres, making him a legend.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Age 14 | Started playing guitar professionally at the Louisiana Hayride. |
| Age 15 | Recorded “Susie Q” with Dale Hawkins. |
| First Elvis Presley session | Overdubs for “Viva Las Vegas” soundtrack. |
| 1970 Nashville sessions | Recorded with Elvis Presley in Studio B. |
| Early Years Compilation | 28 tracks covering from 1956-1969, showcasing Burton’s versatility. |
Burton played a key role in Elvis Presley’s music, from studio to live shows. His work is showcased in “The Early Years 1956-1969” alongside other legends. This album shows how Burton influenced guitar music across different styles.
Cultural and Musical Impact of Susie Q
“Susie Q” by Dale Hawkins is a crucial song that boosted the rockabilly genre towards rock music. It has deep roots in Louisiana’s musical mix, blending country, blues, and gospel. The collaboration with James Burton led to an iconic guitar riff that changed the genre.
Influence on Rockabilly and Rock Music
The impact of “Susie Q” on rock and rockabilly is huge. Elvis Presley’s “That’s All Right” in 1954 made rockabilly big, inspiring stars like Buddy Holly. By the mid-1950s, Elvis was king of rockabilly, changing music styles everywhere. Recorded at Chess Studios, “Susie Q” became key to “swamp rock”‘s birth. Its unique style influenced many and showed how rock music was changing.
Cover Versions by Other Artists
Many artists covered “Susie Q,” showing its lasting appeal. Creedence Clearwater Revival’s version in 1968 made the Top 20, adding to its fame. The Rolling Stones were also inspired by it. Being in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 important songs highlights its importance. The covers and ongoing popularity prove its big role in music history.
FAQ
What is the meaning behind the song “Susie Q” by Dale Hawkins?
The song “Susie Q” combines rockabilly sounds with a Southern twist. It shows the energy of young people back then. Also, it highlights the exciting music scene in Louisiana during the 1950s.
What inspired the song “Susie Q”?
Dale Hawkins and Robert Chaisson got their inspiration from Susan Lewis, Stan Lewis’s daughter. This inspiration created the catchy “Susie Q.”
How was “Susie Q” originally recorded?
They recorded “Susie Q” at KWKH Radio Studio in Shreveport, Louisiana. James Burton’s new guitar techniques added something special to the song.
Who played the signature guitar licks in “Susie Q”?
James Burton was the one playing those unique guitar licks in “Susie Q”. His work was key, even though he wasn’t credited for songwriting.
What was the chart success of “Susie Q”?
“Susie Q” did well on the charts, hitting #7 on the Hot R&B Sides. This success was a big deal for Dale Hawkins’ career.
Has “Susie Q” received any special recognitions?
Yes, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame included “Susie Q” in the “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll”. This shows how it kept influencing music.
What impact did James Burton’s guitar work on “Susie Q” have on his career?
James Burton’s work on “Susie Q” made a big impact. He went on to play with stars like Elvis Presley and Ricky Nelson. This helped shape rock music’s sound.
Did “Susie Q” influence other artists and genres?
“Susie Q” helped the rockabilly genre grow and inspired many artists. Creedence Clearwater Revival even covered it, making the song more famous.
What makes “Susie Q” by Dale Hawkins a classic rock song?
“Susie Q” is a classic because of its new composition and James Burton’s guitar work. It perfectly captures the rockabilly music’s spirit of the 1950s.
