Jerry Lee Lewis – Wild One (Real Wild Child)

About the song

Background

• Not Jerry’s Original: The song was originally titled “Wild One” and written and performed by Australian rock and roll singer Johnny O’Keefe in 1958.
• Ivan’s Version: A short time later, a member of Buddy Holly’s band The Crickets, Jerry Allison, recorded it under the name “Ivan” with Buddy Holly on guitar. It was retitled “Real Wild Child” and became a minor hit.
• Jerry Lee Lewis’s Cover: Jerry Lee Lewis also recorded his version in 1958. His take is the most famous, injecting the song with his trademark high energy and piano-pounding style. It appears on the soundtrack of the biopic “Great Balls of Fire!”, helping revive interest in his music.

Lyrics

The lyrics are a rebellious celebration of youthful energy:

• The Speaker: The speaker is a self-proclaimed “wild one,” uninhibited and ready to shake things up.
• Attitude: They revel in their carefree spirit, defying anyone who tries to “cramp their style.”
• Activities: Going out in fast cars, staying up all night, dancing, and causing a ruckus are their idea of a good time.

Themes

• Youthful Rebellion: The core theme is the excitement and rebellion of youth, expressing a desire to break free from societal constraints.
• Freedom and Expression: The song champions individual expression and a rejection of conformity.
• Rock and Roll Spirit: The lyrics and the driving rhythm capture the raw, untamed energy of early rock and roll music.

Legacy

“Wild One (Real Wild Child)” by Jerry Lee Lewis became a rock and roll classic. It’s been covered by many artists over the decades, including:

• Iggy Pop (with Jet)
• Status Quo
• Everlife
• Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
• Brian Setzer

Video

Lyrics