About the Song
Chuck Berry’s “Roll Over Beethoven” is a groundbreaking track that boldly declared the arrival of rock and roll as a dominant force in popular music. This rebellious anthem challenged the traditional hierarchy of musical genres, asserting the power and energy of the new sound.
Berry’s lyrics are a playful yet provocative statement of intent. By invoking the name of Ludwig van Beethoven, a titan of classical music, he symbolically overthrows the old guard and proclaims the supremacy of rock and roll. The song’s infectious rhythm and Chuck’s signature guitar riffs create a sonic landscape that is both exhilarating and defiant.
“Roll Over Beethoven” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that represents the spirit of rebellion and innovation. It paved the way for countless artists who followed in Berry’s footsteps, inspiring them to push the boundaries of music and challenge the status quo.
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Lyrics: “Roll Over Beethoven”
Well I’m-a write a little letter
I’m gonna mail it to my local D.J.
Yes, it’s a jumpin’ little record
I want my jockey to play
Roll over Beethoven
I gotta hear it again todayYou know my temperature risin’
And the jukebox blowin’ a fuse
My heart beatin’ rhythm
And my soul keep a-singing the blues
Roll over Beethoven
And tell Tchaikovsky the newsI got the rockin’ pneumonia
I need a shot of rhythm and blues
I caught the rollin’ arthritis
Sittin’ down at a rhythm review
Roll over Beethoven
They rockin’ in two by twoWell if you feel it and like it
Go get your lover then reel and rock it
Roll it over then move on up just a trifle further
Then reel and rock with one another
Roll over Beethoven
And dig these rhythm and bluesWell early in the mornin’
And I’m givin’ you my warnin’
Don’t you step on my blue suede shoes
Hey diddle-diddle, I’m-a play my fiddle
Ain’t got nothing to lose
Roll over Beethoven
And tell Tchaikovsky the newsYou know she wiggle like a glow worm
Dance like a spinnin’ top
She got a crazy partner
You oughta see him reel and rock
Long as she got a dime
The music won’t never stopRoll over Beethoven
Roll over Beethoven
Roll over Beethoven
Roll over Beethoven
Roll over Beethoven
And dig these rhythm and blues