About the Song
Chuck Berry’s “Sweet Little Sixteen” is a quintessential rock and roll classic that perfectly captures the exuberance and excitement of youth. This infectious tune has become a timeless anthem for teenagers everywhere.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a teenage girl celebrating her sixteenth birthday, surrounded by friends and admirers. Berry’s storytelling ability shines through as he creates relatable characters and scenarios that resonate with young listeners.
Musically, “Sweet Little Sixteen” is a quintessential example of early rock and roll. The energetic rhythm, combined with Berry’s signature guitar riffs, creates a driving beat that is irresistible to dance to. The song’s structure is simple yet effective, with a catchy chorus that sticks in your head long after the music stops.
Beyond its musical appeal, “Sweet Little Sixteen” has become a cultural touchstone, representing the universal experience of teenage life. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, and it continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.
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Lyrics: “Sweet Little Sixteen”
They’re really rockin’ in Boston
In Pittsburgh, PA
Deep in the heart of Texas
And round the Frisco Bay
All over St. Louis
And down in New Orleans
All the cats wanna dance with
Sweet little sixteenSweet little sixteen
She’s just got to have
About a half a million
Framed autographs
Her wallet filled with pictures
She gets ’em one by one
Become so excited
Watch her, look at her run, boy“Oh mommy, mommy
Please may I go
It’s such a sight to see
Somebody steal the show
Oh daddy, daddy
I beg of you
Whisper to mommy
It’s all right with you”Cause they’ll be rockin’ on Bandstand
Philadelphia, PA
Deep in the heart of Texas
And round the Frisco Bay
All over St. Louis
Way down in New Orleans
All the cats wanna dance with
Sweet little sixteenCause they’ll be rockin’ on Bandstand
Philadelphia, PA
Deep in the heart of Texas
And round the Frisco Bay
All over St. Louis
Way down in New Orleans
All the cats wanna dance with, oh
Sweet little sixteenSweet little sixteen
She’s got the grown up blues
Tight dresses and lipstick
She’s sportin’ high heel shoes
Oh, but tomorrow morning
She’ll have to change her trend
And be sweet sixteen
And back in class againWell, they’ll be rockin’ in Boston
Pittsburgh, PA
Deep in the heart of Texas
And round the Frisco Bay
Way out in St. Louis
Way down to New Orleans
All the cats wanna dance with
Sweet little sixteen