About the Song
In the realm of rock and roll, there are a select few artists who have transcended the boundaries of genre and time, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of music. Jerry Lee Lewis, the “Killer” himself, stands as one such figure, a true pioneer who infused rock and roll with a rebellious spirit and an untamed virtuosity that set him apart from all others. His music, a potent blend of country, blues, and gospel, pulsated with raw energy and untamed passion, captivating audiences worldwide and earning him a place among the legends of rock and roll.
Thirty-Nine and Holding, released in 1980, stands as a testament to Jerry Lee Lewis’s enduring brilliance. At the age of 39, Lewis was still a force to be reckoned with, his fingers dancing across the piano keys with the same fiery intensity that had defined his early career. In this album, he revisits his country roots, delivering a collection of songs that showcase his deep connection to the genre and his ability to infuse it with his own unique flair.
The album opens with the title track, “Thirty-Nine and Holding”, a defiant declaration of Lewis’s refusal to be bound by age or convention. His voice, still brimming with youthful exuberance, soars over the driving beat, while his piano playing takes center stage, weaving intricate patterns that showcase his technical mastery and soulful expression. In this song, Lewis embodies the spirit of rock and roll, a music that celebrates rebellion, individuality, and the refusal to conform.
Throughout the album, Lewis continues to explore the rich tapestry of country music, delving into themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. In “She Even Woke Me Up to Say Goodbye”, he captures the heartbreak of a lost love with a poignant ballad that showcases his ability to convey deep emotion through his music. “Big Bluegrass Medley” is a foot-stomping celebration of country music, featuring Lewis’s virtuosic piano playing and a lively ensemble that brings the song to life. And in “I Believe in You”, Lewis delivers a heartfelt ode to faith and hope, his voice resonating with sincerity and conviction.
Thirty-Nine and Holding is not merely a collection of country covers; it is a testament to Jerry Lee Lewis’s artistry and his ability to breathe new life into familiar songs. He approaches each track with a fresh perspective, infusing it with his own unique energy and passion. The result is an album that is both nostalgic and forward-looking, a celebration of the enduring power of country music and the timeless genius of Jerry Lee Lewis.
As you listen to Thirty-Nine and Holding, let yourself be swept away by the infectious energy and heartfelt emotion that Jerry Lee Lewis pours into every note. Allow his music to transport you to a time when rock and roll was young and untamed, when the spirit of rebellion burned bright. And remember that even as time passes, the music of Jerry Lee Lewis remains Thirty-Nine and Holding, a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest rock and roll pioneers of all time.