“Wake Up Little Susie,” released in 1957 by The Everly Brothers, became a defining track of the rock and roll era, capturing the innocent anxieties of teenage romance. The Everly Brothers, composed of siblings Don and Phil Everly, were already rising stars with their signature close harmony vocals and rockabilly-infused sound. “Bye Bye Love” and “Wake Up Little Susie,” both penned by the prolific songwriting duo Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, catapulted them to international fame.
The song tells the story of two teenagers who fall asleep watching a movie and wake up after curfew. Panicked about what people will think, particularly Susie’s parents, they plead with her to wake up and corroborate their innocent explanation. The lyrics, while simple, perfectly encapsulate the societal pressures and anxieties surrounding dating in the 1950s. This theme resonated deeply with a generation navigating the nascent stages of rock and roll culture and its accompanying social shifts.
“Wake Up Little Susie” shot to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and various other charts, cementing its status as a crossover hit, appealing to both pop and country audiences. Despite initial controversy and bans in some areas due to its perceived suggestive themes – falling asleep together – the song’s infectious melody and relatable narrative ultimately triumphed. Its success solidified The Everly Brothers’ position as major figures in rock and roll’s early development. The song’s enduring popularity is evidenced by its inclusion in the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll” list.
Audience reactions were mixed initially. While many embraced the song’s playful innocence and catchy tune, some conservative listeners found the scenario scandalous. However, this controversy only fuelled the song’s popularity, turning it into an anthem of teenage rebellion, albeit a mild one. Over time, the perceived scandalous elements faded, and the song became a nostalgic classic, beloved for its charming portrayal of youthful naivety and the universal experience of teenage romance.
