About the song
Background
- Songwriting and Release: Chuck Berry wrote “Around and Around” in 1958. Interestingly, it was released as the B-side of his legendary hit “Johnny B. Goode”. Despite its B-side status, “Around and Around” went on to become a rock and roll standard.
- Influence: Like many of Chuck Berry’s songs, “Around and Around” showcases his signature guitar style and his mastery of crafting catchy, relatable narratives. It cemented his role as one of the pioneers of rock and roll music.
Lyrics
The lyrics tell a simple but entertaining story:
- The Setup: The narrator describes his partner, F-r-e-d-d-i-e, who enjoys staying out late dancing the night away, much to his dismay.
- The Desire: The narrator wishes his partner would settle down and “be true” to him.
- The Refrain: This desire leads into the repeated chorus line “Around and around”, echoing the constant motion and late nights that are a source of tension in the relationship.
Themes
- Youthful Rebellion and Restlessness: The song depicts the classic theme of a young person eager to enjoy nightlife, with the narrator wishing they’d slow down.
- Relationship Dynamics: The lyrics hint at the struggle of balancing youthful desires and the need for commitment within a relationship.
- Rock and Roll Spirit: The upbeat rhythm, guitar riffs, and focus on dancing and going out all embody the infectious energy of early rock and roll.
Beyond the Music
“Around and Around” remains an iconic rock and roll tune for several reasons:
- Catchy Simplicity: The song’s hook is simple and memorable.
- Legacy of Covers: Countless artists have covered “Around and Around”. Famous covers include those by The Rolling Stones and The Animals, keeping the song alive for generations.
- Rock and Roll Foundation: The song perfectly demonstrates Chuck Berry’s influence on the development of rock and roll– his storytelling lyrics and guitar work are cornerstones of the genre.
Video
Lyrics
They say the joint was rockin’
A goin’ ’round and round
Yeah reelin’ and a rockin’
What a crazy sound
Well they never stopped rockin’
Till the moon went down
Oh it sounds so sweet
I gotta take me a chance
Rose out of my seat
Just had to dance
Started movin’ my feet
Well a clappin’ my hands
Well the joint started rockin’
Going ’round and around
Yeah reelin’ and a rockin’
What a crazy sound
A well they never stopped rockin’
Till the moon went down
Twelve o’clock
Well the place was packed
Front doors was locked
Well the place was packed
When the police knocked
Both doors flew back
But they kept on a rockin’
Going ’round and around
Yeah reelin’ and a rockin’
What a crazy sound
Well they never stopped rockin’
Till the moon went down
Oh they kept on a rockin’
Going ’round and around
Yeah reelin’ and a rockin’
What a crazy sound
Well they never stopped rockin’
Till the moon went down
Oh the joint kept on a rockin’
Going ’round and around
Yeah reelin’ and a rockin’
What a crazy sound
Well they never stopped rockin’
Till the moon went down