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The 1950s poll: the 100 best songs of the 1950s

Welcome my friends to the "third time lucky" thread about the best 100 songs of the 1950s according to Acclaimed Music Forum.



The rock & roll era? Of course, rock & roll will define forever the music of the 1950s, but there was a lot of great music on other styles too. The best names of cool jazz, vocal, rhythm & blues, country, chanson, blues, hard bop, big band, doo wop, gospel, bluegrass or even avant-garde are going to pass on parade in front of you right now. Hope you enjoy the show.
Only one thing before launching the parade, the artists with more songs nominated are Hank Williams with 8 songs and Elvis Presley with 7 (Chuck Berry is a distant 3 with 4 songs nominated). Do you want to know who is going to win the battle? Stay tuned till the end and you will find out...


So... lest’s begin with positions 100-81


100. Nat "King" Cole - Mona Lisa

Nat

Points: 265
Biggest fans: Henrik (#72), Listyguy (#74), Miguel (#75)
Position in AM 3000: #149 of the 1950s and #1657 of all time
Position in 1950 poll: #10
Style: Traditional Pop
Written by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston
Recorded by Nat "King" Cole with Orchestra conducted by Lex Baxter on March 11, 1950 at Capitol Studios, Hollywood, California
Released in May of 1950 on Capitol label

Comments: nicolas: "IMO Nat King Cole was much more interesting when he played with his jazz-R&B trio."

You Tube link


99. Big Joe Turner - Shake, Rattle and Roll

Big Joe Turner - Shake, Rattle and Roll / You Know I Love You

Points: 284
Biggest fans: Mindrocker (#38 ), Henry (#43), Henrik and nicolas (#65)
Position in AM 3000: #22 of the 1950s and #154 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #8
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Charles E. Calhoun
Recorded by Big Joe Turner and His Blues Kings on February 15, 1954 in New York
Released in April of 1954 on Atlantic label

You Tube link


98. Webb Pierce - There Stands the Glass

Webb Pierce - There Stands the Glass / I'm Walking the Dog

Points: 295
Biggest fans: nicolas (#41), Honorio (#57), Listyguy and Mindrocker (#64)
Position in AM 3000: #137 of the 1950s and #1516 of all time
Position in 1953 poll: #7
Style: Honky Tonk
Written by Russ Hull, Mary Jean Shurtz and Audrey Greisham
Recorded by Webb Pierce in 1953 in Nashville, Tenessee
Released in September of 1953 on Decca US label

You Tube link


97. Nat "King" Cole - Unforgettable

Nat

Points: 302
Biggest fans: Henrik (#25), Henry (#32), Miguel (#59)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1951 poll: #8
Style: Traditional Pop
Written by Irving Gordon
Recorded by Nat "King" Cole with Orchestra conducted by Nelson Riddle on August 17, 1951
Released in October of 1951 on Capitol label

You Tube link


96. Hank Williams - Hey, Good Lookin'

Hank Williams - Hey, Good Lookin' / My Heart Would Know

Points: 309
Biggest fans: Miguel (#18 ), nicolas (#38 ), Listyguy (#42),
Position in AM 3000: #91 of the 1950s and #959 of all time
Position in 1951 poll: #1
Style: Honky Tonk
Written by Hank Williams
Recorded by Hank Williams with His Drifting Cowboys on March 16, 1951 at Castle Studio, Nashville, Tenessee
Released in June 1951 on MGM label

You Tube link


95. Hank Williams - Cold, Cold Heart

Hank Williams - Cold, Cold Heart / Dear John

Points: 311
Biggest fans: Honorio (#35), Listyguy and Miguel (#43),
Position in AM 3000: #97 of the 1950s and #1016 of all time
Position in 1951 poll: #10
Style: Honky Tonk
Written by Hank Williams
Recorded by Hank Williams with His Drifting Cowboys on December 21, 1950 at Castle Studio, Nashville, Tenessee
Released on February 2, 1951 on MGM label

You Tube link


94. John Cage - 4'33"



Points: 313
Biggest fans: Honorio (#23), Charlie Driggs (#25), sonofsamiam (#54)
Position in AM 3000: #144 of the 1950s and #1580 of all time
Position in 1952 poll: #9
Style: Minimalism
Written by John Cage
Premiered by David Tudor on August 29, 1952 at Woodstock, New York

Comments: nicolas: "Insufficient"

You Tube link


93. Harry Belafonte - Banana Boat (Day-O)

Harry Belafonte - Banana Boat (Day-O) / Star-O

Points: 314
Biggest fans: Miguel (#32), Brad (#46), Henrik (#58 )
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1956 poll: #10
Style: Calypso
Written by traditional Jamaican folk song, adapted by Irving Burgie
Recorded by Harry Belafonte on October 20, 1955 at Webster Hall, New York
Released in December of 1956 on RCA Victor label

Comments: nicolas: "Sad that the only calypso song here is this watered-down, Hollywood performance. Not that I blame Mr. Belafonte, he was a good man, but the original was so much better, funnier, full of great social commentary. But far less known. That's the bias of this game."

You Tube link


92. The Penguins - Earth Angel (Will You Be Mine)

The Penguins - Earth Angel (Will You Be Mine) / Hey Senorita

Points: 315
Biggest fans: Henry (#18 ), Listyguy (#25), Alex D (#41)
Position in AM 3000: #47 of the 1950s and #371 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #5
Style: Doo Wop
Written by Curtis Williams, Jesse Belvin and Gaynel Hodge
Recorded by The Penguins in October 1954 in Los Angeles, California
Released in 1954 on Doo Tone label

You Tube link


91. Hank Williams - Take These Chains from My Heart

Hank Williams - Take These Chains From My Heart / Ramblin' Man

Points: 320
Biggest fans: Miguel (#26), nicolas (#32), sonofsamiam (#53)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1953 poll: #6
Style: Honky Tonk
Written by Fred Rose and Hy Heath
Recorded by Hank Williams with his Drifting Cowboys on September 23, 1952 at Castle Studio in Nashville, Tenessee
Released in April 1953 on MGM label

You Tube link


90. Fats Domino - Going to the River

Fats Domino - Going to the River / Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Points: 321
Biggest fans: Brad (#33), Honorio and Listyguy (#50)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1953 poll: #8
Style: New Orleans R&B
Written by Dave Bartholomew and Fats Domino
Recorded by Fats Domino in December 1952
Released in April 1953 on Imperial label

You Tube link


89. Professor Longhair - Tipitina



Points: 324
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs and Mindrocker (#26), Henry (#41)
Position in AM 3000: #148 of the 1950s and #1654 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #9
Style: New Orleans R&B
Written by Roy Byrd
Recorded by Professor Longhair and His Blues Scholars in November 1953 in New Orleans, Louisiana
Released in January 1954 on Atlantic label

You Tube link


88. The Orioles - Crying in the Chapel

The Orioles - Crying in the Chapel / Don't You Think I Ought to Know

Points: 327
Biggest fans: Henry (#21), Miguel (#44), Henrik (#46)
Position in AM 3000: #67 of the 1950s and #669 of all time
Position in 1953 poll: #3
Style: Doo Wop
Written by Artie Glenn
Recorded by The Orioles in June 1953
Released in July 1953 on Jubilee label

You Tube link


87. Charlie Parker - Bloomdido

Charlie Parker - Bloomdido / My Melancholy Baby

Points: 331
Biggest fans: sonofsamiam (#28 ), Henry (#39), Charlie Driggs and Honorio (#41)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1950 poll: #8
Style: Bebop
Written by Charlie Parker
Recorded by Charlie Parker and His Orchestra (Charlie Parker, alto sax; Dizzy Gillespie, trumpet; Thelonious Monk, piano; Buddy Rich, drums; Curly Russel, bass) on June 6, 1950 in New York
Released in 1950 on Mercury label

You Tube link


86. Jackie Wilson - Reet Petite (The Finest Girl You Ever Want to Meet)

Jackie Wilson - Reet Petite (The Finest Girl You Ever Want to Meet) / By the Light of the Silvery Moon

Points: 340
Biggest fans: Miguel (#1), Listyguy (#41), Henry (#46)
Position in AM 3000: #57 of the 1950s and #543 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #9
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Berry Gordy and Tyran Carlo
Recorded by Jackie Wilson in 1957
Released in October 1957 on Brunswick label

You Tube link


85. Édith Piaf - Padam Padam...

Édith Piaf - Padam Padam... / La chanson de Catherine

Points: 343
Biggest fans: Honorio (#25), sonofsamiam (#36), Brad (#37)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1951 poll: #8
Style: Chanson
Written by Henri Contet and Norbert Glanzberg
Recorded by Édith Piaf with orchestra conducted by Robert Chauvigny in 1951
Released in 1951 on Columbia label

You Tube link


84. Pérez Prado - Mambo No. 5

Pérez Prado - Mambo No. 5 / Mambo Jambo

Points: 347
Biggest fans: Miguel (#33), Charlie Driggs (#36), Honorio (#44)
Position in AM 3000: bubbling under
Position in 1950 poll: #7
Style: Mambo
Written by Dámaso Pérez Prado
Recorded by the Pérez Prado Orchestra on December 12, 1949 in Mexico City
Released in 1950 on RCA Victor label

You Tube link


83. Jimmy Forrest - Night Train

Jimmy Forrest - Night Train / Bolo Blues

Points: 348
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#9), sonofsamiam (#51), Mindrocker (#52)
Position in AM 3000: #108 of the 1950s and #1152 of all time
Position in 1952 poll: #5
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Oscar Washington, Lewis P. Simpkins and Jimmy Forrest
Recorded by Jimmy Forest, tenor and All Star Combo on November 27, 1952
Released in March 1952 on United label

You Tube link


82. Muddy Waters - I'm Your Hoochie Cooche Man

Muddy Waters - I'm Your Hoochie Cooche Man / She's So Pretty

Points: 348
Biggest fans: Brad (#24), Mindrocker (#31), Listyguy (#36)
Position in AM 3000: #38 of the 1950s and #282 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #7
Style: Chicago Blues
Written by Willie Dixon
Recorded by Muddy Waters and his Guitar on January 7, 1954 in Chicago, Illinois
Released in 1954 on Chess label

You Tube link


81. The Chordettes - Mr. Sandman

The Chordettes - Mr. Sandman / I Don't Wanna See You Cryin'

Points: 349
Biggest fans: Listyguy (#31), Miguel (#38 ), Brad (#44)
Position in AM 3000: #136 of the 1950s and #1513 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #4
Style: Vocal Group
Written by Pat Ballard
Recorded by The Chordettes with knees played by Archie Bleyer and orchestra conducted by Archie Bleyer in 1954
Released in October 1954 on Cadence label

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 80-71

80. Lloyd Price - Lawdy Miss Clawdy

Lloyd Price - Lawdy Miss Clawdy / Mailman Blues

Points: 351
Biggest fans: Brad (#19), Listyguy (#44), nicolas (#48 )
Position in AM 3000: #48 of the 1950s and #382 of all time
Position in 1952 poll: #6
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Lloyd Price
Recorded by Lloyd Price and his Orchestra in March 1952 at Specialty Records Studio in New Orleans, Louisiana
Released in April 1952 on Specialty label

You Tube link


79. Boris Vian - Le déserteur



Points: 352
Biggest fans: nicolas (#13), Charlie Driggs (#15), Miguel (#49)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1955 poll: #10
Style: Chanson
Written by Boris Vian on February 1954, first published on May 7, 1954 and first recorded by Mouloudji
Recorded by Boris Vian avec Jimmy Walter et son ensemble in 1955
Released in 1955 on Philips label (as part of the EP "Chansons possibles")

Comments: nicolas: "Best anti-war song ? At least a strong contender. My 6-yr old daughter loves it and in the beginning it even made her cry ! Papa, war is so sad !!! Sometimes a child just reminds you of essential things. And the cynical can laugh (f… them).."

You Tube link


78. Hank Williams - Kaw-Liga

Hank Williams - Kaw-Liga / Your Cheatin' Heart

Points: 354
Biggest fans: Mindrocker (#14), Miguel (#21), Brad (#51)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1953 poll: #10
Style: Honky Tonk
Written by Hank Williams and Fred Rose
Recorded by Hank Williams with His Drifting Cowboys on September 23, 1952 at Castle Studio, Nashville, Tenessee
Released in January 1953 (posthumously) on MGM label

You Tube link


77. Ray Charles - Mess Around

Ray Charles - Mess Around / Funny (But I Still Love You)

Points: 359
Biggest fans: Alex D (#11), Mindrocker (#27), sonofsamiam (#37)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1953 poll: #9
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by A. Nugetre (Ahmet Ertegün)
Recorded by Ray Charles and His Orchestra on May 10, 1953 in New York
Released in June 1953 on Atlantic label

You Tube link


76. Hank Williams - Jambalaya (On the Bayou)

Hank Williams - Jambalaya (On the Bayou) / Window Shopping

Points: 359
Biggest fans: nicolas (#11), Miguel (#28 ), Honorio (#31)
Position in AM 3000: bubbling under
Position in 1952 poll: #2
Style: Honky Tonk
Written by Hank Williams and Moon Mullican
Recorded by Hank Williams with His Drifting Cowboys on June 13, 1952 at Castle Studio, Nashville, Tenessee
Released on July 19, 1952 on MGM label

Comments: nicolas: "I love Hank's happy songs. Springsteen once said that country music was made of humor and gravity, and Hank was country music."

You Tube link


75. Fats Domino - Ain't It a Shame

Fats Domino - Ain't It a Shame / La-La

Points: 360
Biggest fans: nicolas (#11), Miguel (#28 ), Honorio (#31)
Position in AM 3000: #61 of the 1950s and #618 of all time
Position in 1955 poll: #8
Style: New Orleans R&B
Written by Antoine Domino and Dave Bartholomew
Recorded by Fats Domino on March 15, 1955 at J&M/Cosimo Studios in New Orleans, Louisiana
Released in April 1955 on Imperial label

You Tube link


74. Gerry Mulligan Quartet - My Funny Valentine

Gerry Mulligan - My Funny Valentine / Bark for Barksdale

Points: 361
Biggest fans: Honorio (#6), Charlie Driggs (#50), nicolas (#60)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1952 poll: #4
Style: Cool Jazz
Written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart
Recorded by Gerry Mulligan Quartet (Gerry Mulligan baritone sax, Chet Baker trumpet, Chico Hamilton drums, Carson Smith, bass) on September 2, 1952 at The Blackhawk, San Francisco, California
Released in 1952 on Fantasy label

Comments: Honorio: "Since this version is basically a trumpet solo is usually (and wrongly) credited to Chet Baker. And, unfairly enough, for me the highlight of the track is the Mulligan part. The Quartet had no piano or guitar so the harmonic counterpoint was given by Mulligan’s baritone sax, playing heavenly harmonies intertwining with the trumpet and not abandoning a humble background till his own solemn and brief solo at 2'05"."

You Tube link


73. Chuck Berry - Sweet Little Sixteen

Chuck Berry - Sweet Little Sixteen / Reelin' and Rockin'

Points: 363
Biggest fans: Henry (#17), Alex D (#23), Honorio (#27)
Position in AM 3000: #84 of the 1950s and #861 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #7
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Chuck Berry
Recorded by Chuck Berry
Released in January 1958 on Chess label

You Tube link


72. Bud Powell - Un Poco Loco

Bud Powell - Un poco loco / It Could Happen to You

Points: 365
Biggest fans: Brad (#27), sonofsamiam (#31), Alex D (#32)
Position in AM 3000: #151 of the 1950s and #1688 of all time
Position in 1951 poll: #7
Style: Bebop
Written by Bud Powell
Recorded by the Bud Powell Trio (Bud Powell piano, Curly Russell bass, Max Roach drums) on May 1, 1951 at WCR Studios, New York City
Released in 1951 on Blue Note label

You Tube link


71. Jackie Wilson - Lonely Teardrops

Jackie Wilson - Lonely Teardrops / In the Blue of Evening

Points: 366
Biggest fans: Miguel (#10), Listyguy (#23), Henry (#30)
Position in AM 3000: #54 of the 1950s and #501 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #4
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Berry Gordy and Tyran Carlo
Recorded by Jackie Wilson in 1958
Released in October 1958 on Brunswick label

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s poll: the 100 best songs of the 1950s

Honorio

81. The Chordettes - Mr. Sandman

The Chordettes - Mr. Sandman / I Don't Wanna See You Cryin'

Points: 349
Biggest fans: Listyguy (#31), Miguel (#38 ), Brad (#44)
Position in AM 3000: #136 of the 1950s and #1513 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #4
Style: Vocal Group
Written by Pat Ballard
Recorded by The Chordettes with knees played by Archie Bleyer and orchestra conducted by Archie Bleyer in 1954
Released in October 1954 on Cadence label

You Tube link


I had "Mr. Sandman" at #20...

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 70-61

Don't worry Alex D, your votes are correctly introduced now, I simply forgot to edit the biggest fans of Mr. Sandman that it should go now as: Biggest fans: Alex D (#20), Listyguy (#31), Miguel (#38 )


70. Georges Brassens - La marine



Points: 368
Biggest fans: nicolas (#7), Honorio (#22), Alex D (#36)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1953 poll: #4
Style: Chanson
Written by Paul Fort and Georges Brassens
Recorded by Georges Brassens et sa guitare (plus Pierre Nicolas on double bass) on October 13, 1953 at Studio Apollo, Paris, France
Released in 1953 on Polydor label (as B-side of "Il n’y a pas d'amour heureux")

Comments: nicolas: "A great song about love, death and time that eats everything."

You Tube link


69. Jackie Brenston - Rocket "88"

Jackie Brenston - Rocket

Points: 369
Biggest fans: Honorio (#20), Alex D (#28 ), Charlie Driggs (#34)
Position in AM 3000: #40 of the 1950s and #292 of all time
Position in 1951 poll: #2
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Jackie Brenston
Recorded by Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats on March 5, 1951 at Sam Phillips recording studio, Memphis, Tennessee
Released in April 1951 on Chess label

You Tube link


68. Vince Taylor - Brand New Cadillac

Vince Taylor - Brand New Cadillac / Pledging My Love

Points: 378
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#8 ), nicolas (#34), Henrik (#38 )
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1959 poll: #10
Style: Rockabilly
Written by Vince Taylor
Recorded by Vince Taylor and his Playboys probably in 1959
Released in April 1959 on Parlophone label

You Tube link


67. Moondog - Theme and Variations

Moondog - Moondog and His Friends

Points: 378
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#7), sonofsamiam (#18 ), Mindrocker (#60)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1953 poll: #5
Style: Minimalism
Written by Louis T. Hardin
Recorded by Moondog and his Friends probably in 1953
Released in 1953 on Epic label opening the album "Moondog and his Friends"

You Tube link


66. Stan Kenton - City of Glass: Entrance into the City

Stan Kenton - City of Glass

Points: 384
Biggest fans: sonofsamiam (#3), Charlie Driggs (#13), Brad (#50)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1952 poll: #7
Style: Progressive Jazz
Written by Stan Kenton
Recorded by Stan Kenton and his Orchestra on December 7, 1951
Released in 1952 on Capitol label opening the album "City of Glass"

You Tube link


65. Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong - Dream a Little Dream of Me

Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong - Dream a Little Dream of Me / Can Anyone Explain?

Points: 385
Biggest fans: Honorio (#7), Miguel (#35), nicolas (#43)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1950 poll: #2
Style: Vocal Jazz
Written by Wilbur Schwandt, Fabian Andre and Gus Kahn
Recorded by Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald with Sly Oliver and his Orchestra on August 25, 1950 in New York
Released in September 1950 on Decca US label

Comments: Honorio: "Just the first 15 seconds (a few notes of Armstrong trumpet and a brief scat by Fitzgerald) are enough to know that this is something exceptional, a prodigious of chemistry between Ella and Louis. To be filed along with other two memorable duets, being joyful (Tom Jobim and Elis Regina in Águas de Março) or gloomy (Tindersticks with Carla Torgeson in Travelling Light)."

You Tube link


64. The Platters - The Great Pretender

The Platters - The Great Pretender / I'm Just a Dancing Partner
Points: 390
Biggest fans: Henry (#12), Charlie Driggs (#22), Henrik (#27)
Position in AM 3000: #44 of the 1950s and #333 of all time
Position in 1955 poll: #5
Style: Doo-Wop
Written by Buck Ram
Recorded by The Platters in 1955
Released on November 3, 1955 on Mercury label

You Tube link


63. Édith Piaf - Milord

Édith Piaf - Milord / Je sais comment
Points: 391
Biggest fans: Miguel (#3), Henrik (#26), nicolas (#35)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1959 poll: #8
Style: Chanson
Written by Georges Moustaky and Marguerite Monnot
Recorded by Édith Piaf and orchestra conducted by Robert Chauvigny in 1959
Released in 1959 on Columbia label

You Tube link


62. Frank Sinatra - In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning

Frank Sinatra - In the Wee Small Hours
Points: 392
Biggest fans: Henrik (#2), Alex D (#15), sonofsamiam (#45)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1955 poll: #9
Style: Vocal Jazz
Written by Bob Hilliard and David Mann
Recorded by Frank Sinatra with orchestra conducted by Nelson Riddle on February 17, 1955 at Capitol Studio, New York
Released on April 25, 1955 on Capitol label opening the album "In the Wee Small Hours"

You Tube link


61. Hank Williams - Your Cheatin' Heart

Hank Williams - Kaw-Liga / Your Cheatin' Heart
Points: 395
Biggest fans: sonofsamiam (#20), Listyguy and nicolas (#22)
Position in AM 3000: #34 of the 1950s and #259 of all time
Position in 1953 poll: #2
Style: Honky Tonk
Written by Hank Williams
Recorded by Hank Williams with His Drifting Cowboys on September 23, 1952 at Castle Studio, Nashville, Tenessee
Released in January 1953 (posthumously) on MGM label as B-side of "Kaw-Liga"

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 60-51

60. Yma Sumac - Ataypura (High Andes)

Yma Sumac - Voice of the Xtabay

Points: 395
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#2), Listyguy (#39), Mindrocker (#43)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1950 poll: #9
Style: Exotica
Written by Moisés Vivanco
Recorded by Yma Sumac with orchestra conducted by Les Baxter in 1950
Released in 1950 on Capitol label as a single (cover art not available) and as the second song of the album "Voice of the Xtabay"

You Tube link


59. The Platters - Smoke Gets in Your Eyes

The Platters - Smoke Gets in Your Eyes / No Matter What You Are

Points: 396
Biggest fans: Miguel (#7), Brad (#11), Henrik (#28 )
Position in AM 3000: #169 of the 1950s and #2096 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #10
Style: Doo-Wop
Written by Otto Harbach and Jerome Kern
Recorded by The Platters in 1958
Released in October 1958 on Mercury label

You Tube link


58. Professor Longhair - Mardi Gras in New Orleans



Points: 397
Biggest fans: Brad (#5), Charlie Driggs (#19), Alex D, nicolas and sonofsamiam (#40)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1950 poll: #5
Style: New Orleans R&B
Written by Roy Byrd
Recorded by Professor Longhair and his Shuffling Hungarians in 1949
Released in 1950 on Star Talent Folk label

You Tube link


57. Bulawayo Sweet Rhythms Band - Skokiaan



Points: 397
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#4), sonofsamiam (#23), Mindrocker (#36)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1954 poll: #10
Style: Tsaba Tsaba/African Jazz
Written by August Musarurwa
Recorded by Bulawayo Sweet Rhythms Band probably in 1954 in South Africa
Released in 1954 on Gallotone label in South Africa, on London label in UK and on Decca US label in USA

Comments: nicolas: "I could say the same thing about this song with African music as I did with Belafonte's calypso. Regional products are always better !!!"

You Tube link


56. Muddy Waters - Rollin' Stone

Muddy Waters - Rollin' Stone / Walking Blues

Points: 398
Biggest fans: Honorio (#19), Listyguy (#21), Brad (#23)
Position in AM 3000: #77 of the 1950s and #797 of all time
Position in 1950 poll: #4
Style: Chicago Blues
Written by Muddy Waters (based in Robert Petway's "Catfish Blues")
Recorded by Muddy Waters in February 1950 in Chicago
Released in June 1950 on Chess label

You Tube link


55. Ray Charles - I've Got a Woman

Ray Charles - I've Got a Woman / Come Back (Baby)

Points: 401
Biggest fans: Alex D (#16), Honorio (#17), nicolas (#23)
Position in AM 3000: #64 of the 1950s and #655 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #3
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Ray Charles and Ronald Richard
Recorded by Ray Charles and his Band in 1954 at WGST radio station Studios in Atlanta, Georgia
Released in December 1954 on Atlantic label

You Tube link


54. Peggy Lee - Fever

Peggy Lee - Fever / You Don't Know

Points: 404
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#3), Mindrocker (#30), sonofsamiam (#41)
Position in AM 3000: #78 of the 1950s and #814 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #9
Style: Vocal Jazz
Written by Eddie Cooley and John Davenport
Recorded by Peggy Lee with Jack Marshall's Music on May 19, 1958 at Capitol Studio B in Hollywood, California
Released on July 14, 1958 on Capitol label

You Tube link


53. Duke Ellington - The Tattooed Bride

Duke Ellington - Masterpieces by Ellington

Points: 404
Biggest fans: Brad (#6), sonofsamiam (#13), Honorio (#43)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1951 poll: #6
Style: Big Band
Written by Duke Ellington
Recorded by Duke Ellington and his Orchestra on December 18, 1950 in New York
Released in 1951 on Columbia Masterworks label as the third track of the album "Masterpieces by Ellington"

You Tube link


52. Elmore James - Dust My Broom

Elmore James - Dust My Broom / Catfish Blues

Points: 411
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#11), Honorio (#18 ), nicolas (#26)
Position in AM 3000: #58 of the 1950s and #571 of all time
Position in 1951 poll: #3
Style: Blues
Written by Robert Johnson, but Elmore James changed the lyrics and it was credited as writer
Recorded by Elmo James on August 5, 1951 in Jackson, Mississippi
Released in November 1951 on Trumpet label

Comments: nicolas: "(AMG quote) "Nervous and unsure of his abilities as a recording artist, Elmore was surreptitiously recorded by Lillian McMurray of Trumpet Records at the tail end of a Sonny Boy session doing his now-signature tune, "Dust My Broom." Legend has it that James didn't even stay around long enough to hear the playback, much less record a second side." Well, not too bad for an unsure musician !! He does even better IMO than Robert Johnson."

You Tube link


51. Yma Sumac - Xtabay (Lure of the Unknown Love)

Yma Sumac - Virgin of the Sun God / Lure of the Unknown Love

Points: 412
Biggest fans: Henrik and sonofsamiam (#17), Honorio (#24)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1950 poll: #3
Style: Exotica
Written by Les Baxter and John Rose
Recorded by Yma Sumac with orchestra conducted by Les Baxter in 1950
Released in 1950 on Capitol label as B-side of "Virgin of the Sun God"

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 50-41

50. Gene Vincent - Be-Bop-a-Lula

Gene Vincent - Be-Bop-a-Lula / Woman Love

Points: 415
Biggest fans: Brad and Henrik (#14), Alex D (#27)
Position in AM 3000: #18 of the 1950s and #126 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #9
Style: Rockabilly
Written by Gene Vincent and Bill 'Sheriff Tex' Davis
Recorded by Gene Vincent and His Blue Caps on May 4, 1956 at Owen Bradley's Studio in Nashville, Tennessee
Released on June 2, 1956 on Capitol label

You Tube link


49. Georges Brassens - Le gorille



Points: 417
Biggest fans: nicolas (#1), Listyguy (#30), sonofsamiam (#34)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1952 poll: #8
Style: Chanson
Written by Georges Brassens and Eugène Metehen
Recorded by Georges Brassens et sa guitare on March 19, 1952 at Studio Chopin-Pleyel, Paris, France
Released in 1952 on Polydor label

Comments: nicolas: "The best anti-death penalty song ever. When you use humor and derision, nothing can stop you."

You Tube link


48. The Everly Brothers - Bye Bye Love

The Everly Brothers - Bye Bye Love / I Wonder If I Care as Much

Points: 419
Biggest fans: Miguel (#6), Brad (#25), Listyguy (#27)
Position in AM 3000: #20 of the 1950s and #143 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #7
Style: Country Pop
Written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant
Recorded by the Everly Brothers on March 1, 1957
Released on April 20, 1957 on Cadence label

You Tube link


47. Mahalia Jackson - In the Upper Room

Mahalia Jackson - In the Upper Room (Part 1) / In the Upper Room (Part 2)

Points: 421
Biggest fans: nicolas (#10), Charlie Driggs (#14), sonofsamiam (#15)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1952 poll: #10
Style: Gospel
Written by Lucie E. Campbell
Recorded by Mahalia Jackson with accompaniment on March 21, 1952 in New York City
Released in June 1952 on Apollo label

Comments: nicolas: "This was the music I had played in the Church when I got married."

You Tube link


46. Muddy Waters - Manish Boy

Muddy Waters - Manish Boy / Young Fashioned Ways

Points: 426
Biggest fans: Brad (#8 ), Mindrocker (#15), Charlie Driggs (#28 )
Position in AM 3000: #31 of the 1950s and #240 of all time
Position in 1955 poll: #7
Style: Chicago Blues
Written by McKinley Morganfield (aka Muddy Waters), Mel London and Ellas McDaniel (aka Bo Diddley)
Recorded by Muddy Waters and his guitar on May 24, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois
Released in June 1955 on Chess label

You Tube link


45. Elvis Presley - Don't Be Cruel

Elvis Presley - Don't Be Cruel / Hound Dog

Points: 426
Biggest fans: Henry (#6), Brad (#16), Miguel (#17)
Position in AM 3000: #15 of the 1950s and #92 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #7
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Otis Blackwell and Elvis Presley
Recorded by Elvis Presley on July 2, 1956 at RCA Studios in New York City
Released on July 13, 1956 on RCA Victor label

You Tube link


44. Jerry Lee Lewis - Whole Lot of Shakin' Going On

Jerry Lee Lewis - Whole Lot of Shakin' Going On / It'll Be Me

Points: 431
Biggest fans: Henrik (#16), Listyguy (#17), sonofsamiam (#24)
Position in AM 3000: #8 of the 1950s and #64 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #6
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Curlee Williams and Sonny David
Recorded by Jerry Lee Lewis in February 1957 at Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee
Released on May 27, 1957 on Sun label

You Tube link


43. Sam Cooke - You Send Me

Sam Cooke - You Send Me / Summertime

Points: 434
Biggest fans: Alex D (#5), Henry (#8 ), Henrik (#23)
Position in AM 3000: #27 of the 1950s and #200 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #2
Style: Soul
Written by Sam Cooke
Recorded by Sam Cooke on June 1, 1957 in Los Angeles, California
Released on September 7, 1957 on Keen label

You Tube link


42. Gene Kelly - Singin' in the Rain

Gene Kelly - Singin' in the Rain / All I Do Is Dream of You

Points: 435
Biggest fans: Henrik (#3), Miguel (#14), Honorio (#21)
Position in AM 3000: #209 of the 1950s and #2632 of all time
Position in 1952 poll: #1
Style: Musical
Written by Arthur Freed and Nacio Herb Brown
Recorded by Gene Kelly with Lennie Hayton and the MGM Studio Orchestra probably in 1951
Released in 1952 on MGM label

You Tube link


41. Elvis Presley - All Shook Up

Elvis Presley - All Shook Up / That's When Your Heartaches Begin

Points: 437
Biggest fans: Miguel (#5), Henry and Listyguy (#20)
Position in AM 3000: #80 of the 1950s and #831 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #8
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Otis Blackwell and Elvis Presley
Recorded by Elvis Presley on January 12, 1957 at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California
Released on March 22, 1957 on RCA Victor label

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s poll: the 100 best songs of the 1950s

I'm going to use this list to introduce people to the '50s, magnificent list so far.

I know you would like a little bit more discussion here Honorio but these lists are just so excellent that I really cannot argue much. I will however put forward that Brassens is much too low.

Re: The 1950s poll: the 100 best songs of the 1950s

Yes, Stephan, I would like more discussion but I’m aware that those 50 years passed has set in stone those songs and albums and there’s little to argue about that. Anyway many thanks Stephan, any comment will be warmly welcome, especially the positive ones.

Re: The 1950s poll: the 100 best songs of the 1950s

One interesting thing about this list is its unpredictability. Though "Johnny B. Goode" is probably the favorite for the top spot, I have no idea what else will be in the top 10.

Re: The 1950s poll: the 100 best songs of the 1950s

Well, Jonathon, I’m going to allow myself only a little clue: only three songs of the AM main Top 10 showed in our own Top 10 too.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 40-31

40. The Crickets - Not Fade Away

Buddy Holly - Oh Boy! / Not Fade Away

Points: 439
Biggest fans: Mindrocker (#8 ), Listyguy (#11), Charlie Driggs (#17)
Position in AM 3000: #62 of the 1950s and #635 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #10
Style: Rockabilly
Written by Charles Hardin (aka Buddy Holly) and Norman Petty
Recorded by The Crickets on May 27, 1957 at W 7th St Studio in Clovis, New Mexico
Released on October 27, 1957 on Brunswick label

You Tube link


39. Les Paul & Mary Ford - How High the Moon

Les Paul & Mary Ford - How High the Moon / Walkin' and Whistlin' Blues

Points: 441
Biggest fans: Miguel (#2), Honorio (#12), Alex D (#14)
Position in AM 3000: #66 of the 1950s and #663 of all time
Position in 1951 poll: #5
Style: Space Age Pop
Written by Nancy Hamilton and Morgan Lewis
Recorded by Les Paul & Mary Ford on January 4, 1951 at their home studio in Mahwah, New Jersey
Released in March 1951 on Capitol label

You Tube link


38. Hank Williams - Ramblin' Man

Hank Williams - Ramblin' Man / Pictures From Life's Other Side

Points: 443
Biggest fans: Mindrocker (#4), Brad (#17), Charlie Driggs (#30)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1951 poll: #4
Style: Honky Tonk
Written by Hank Williams
Recorded by Luke the Drifter (aka Hank Williams) on June 1, 1951 at Castle Studio in Nashville, Tennessee
Released in December 1951 on MGM label

You Tube link


37. Chet Baker - My Funny Valentine

Chet Baker - Chet Baker Sings

Points: 445
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#12), Honorio (#13), sonofsamiam (#22)
Position in AM 3000: #95 of the 1950s and #993 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #6
Style: Vocal Jazz
Written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart
Recorded by Chet Baker on February 15, 1954 at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles, California
Released in 1954 on Pacific Jazz label as the third song of the album "Chet Baker Sings"

You Tube link


36. Bo Diddley - Bo Diddley

Bo Diddley - Bo Diddley / I'm a Man

Points: 450
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs and sonofsamiam (#14), nicolas (#19)
Position in AM 3000: #25 of the 1950s and #177 of all time
Position in 1955 poll: #6
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Ellas McDaniel (aka Bo Diddley)
Recorded by Bo Diddley on March 2, 1955 at Universal Recording Studio in Chicago, Illinois
Released in April 1955 on Checker label

Comments: nicolas: "Bo D is very special in the rnr landscape, because he brought carribean influences to the music with its distinctive beat and the great Jerome Geen's percussions. He just knew from his Delta background that the guitar could be used as a rhythm instrument, almost as a percussion. John Lee Hooker did it before him, and amplification adds a lot."

You Tube link


35. Elvis Presley - Hound Dog

Elvis Presley - Don't Be Cruel / Hound Dog

Points: 456
Biggest fans: Henry (#7), Listyguy (#10), Mindrocker (#13)
Position in AM 3000: #7 of the 1950s and #55 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #2
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller
Recorded by Elvis Presley on July 2, 1956 at RCA Studios in New York City
Released on July 13, 1956 on RCA Victor label

You Tube link


34. Charles Mingus - Better Git It in Your Soul

Charles Mingus - Mingus Ah Um

Points: 458
Biggest fans: Mindrocker (#6), sonofsamiam (#7), Charlie Driggs (#27)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1959 poll: #9
Style: Post-Bop
Written by Charles Mingus
Recorded by Charles Mingus Septet on May 5, 1959 at Columbia 30th Street Studio in New York City
Released in 1959 on Columbia label opening the album "Mingus Ah Um"

Comments: nicolas: "The power of soul and gospel is alive in this great jazz piece."

You Tube link


33. Nina Simone - My Baby Just Cares for Me

Nina Simone - Little Girl Blue

Points: 467
Biggest fans: Honorio (#10), nicolas (#15), Miguel (#20)
Position in AM 3000: #102 of the 1950s and #1080 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #9
Style: Vocal Jazz
Written by Walter Donaldson and Gus Khan
Recorded by Nina Simone in December 1957 in New York City
Released in 1958 on Bethlehem label as the sixth song of the album "Jazz as Played on an Exclusive Side Street Club", later issued as a single in 1962 and 1987

Comments:
nicolas: "Nina is probably the most unclassifiable figure in 20th century music : jazz, pop, soul, she was all these genres and above them all. While she wrote more interesting lyrics, you can't resist this beat and the subtle and lively piano playing."
Honorio: " The great success of this song in the mid-80s, almost 30 years after it came out, can be explained (apart by the funny video-clip) because great music is always timeless, because styles are less important that substance. Nina Simone always jumped easily between styles, between jazz, blues, soul, gospel, pop and classical. And boarding all of them with... style."

You Tube link


32. Bobby Bland - I'll Take Care of You

Bobby Bland - I'll Take Care of You / That's Why

Points: 470
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#1), Mindrocker (#1), sonofsamiam (#33)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1959 poll: #6
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Brook Benton
Recorded by Bobby Bland probably in 1959
Released in 1959 on Duke label

You Tube link


31. Elvis Presley - Jailhouse Rock

Elvis Presley - Jailhouse Rock / Treat Me Nice

Points: 471
Biggest fans: Listyguy (#2), Henry (#15), Mindrocker (#21)
Position in AM 3000: #26 of the 1950s and #192 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #1
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller
Recorded by Elvis Presley on April 30, 1957 at Radio Recorders, Hollywood, California
Released on September 23, 1957 on RCA Victor label

Comments: Listyguy: "A gem of the decade."

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 40-31

All three of Little Richard's songs cracked the top 30.
Although I feel it's pretty obvious Johnny B Goode won, I still have hope that my number 1 (Long Tall Sally) can beat out Tutti Frutti.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 40-31

30. Frank Sinatra - I've Got You Under My Skin

Frank Sinatra - Songs for Swingin' Lovers!

Points: 476
Biggest fans: Brad (#4), sonofsamiam (#8 ), Honorio (#9)
Position in AM 3000: #89 of the 1950s and #498 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #4
Style: Vocal Jazz
Written by Cole Porter
Recorded by Frank Sinatra with LA Studio Orchestra conducted by Nelson Riddle on January 12, 1956 at Capitol Studios, Hollywood, California
Released on March 5, 1956 on Capitol label as the ninth song of the album "Songs for Swingin' Lovers!" (W 653)

Comments: Honorio: "Legend says that when the musicians played for the first time the arrangement that Nelson Riddle did for the immortal Cole Porter tune, they stood up and applauded. Understandable, it was probably the best arrangement for a big band ever (well, along with "Take the 'A' Train", "Sing, Sing, Sing" and "Moonlight Serenade"). Frank, count me as a swingin' lover too!"

You Tube link


29. Link Wray - Rumble

Link Wray - Rumble / The Swag

Points: 477
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#10), Mindrocker (#11), sonofsamiam (#19)
Position in AM 3000: #36 of the 1950s and #275 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #6
Style: Rockabilly
Written by Milt Grant and Link Wray
Recorded by Link Wray and His Ray Men probably in the spring of 1958
Released in May of 1958 on Cadence label (1347)

Comments: Wikipedia: ""Rumble" utilized then-unexplored techniques like distortion and feedback. The song is "the only instrumental single banned from the radio airwaves." It is also described as the first song to use the power chord, the "major modus operandi of [the] modern rock guitarist"."

You Tube link


28. Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs - Foggy Mountain Breakdown

Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs - Foggy Mountain Breakdown / No Mother or Dad

Points: 478
Biggest fans: Henrik (#4), Brad (#12), nicolas (#16)
Position in AM 3000: #103 of the 1950s and #1085 of all time
Position in 1950 poll: #6
Style: Bluegrass
Written by Earl Scruggs
Recorded by Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys on December 11, 1949 at WBBO Radio Recording Studio in Cincinnati, Ohio
Released on March 15, 1950 on Mercury label (6247)

Comments: nicolas: "Earl Scruggs was from outer space. Listen to his banjo playing, to his incredibly fast hands, and you'll be convinced of that. But after some researching I just found out that he was not from another planet but from Flint Hill, NC."

You Tube link


27. Georges Brassens - La mauvaise réputation



Points: 488
Biggest fans: Honorio (#3), Alex D and Henrik (#12)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1952 poll: #3
Style: Chanson
Written by Georges Brassens
Recorded by Georges Brassens et sa guitare on March 19, 1952 at Studio Chopin-Pleyel, Paris, France
Released in 1952 on Polydor label (560.399)

Comments: Honorio: "Protest songs can be funny. Georges Brassens wrote a semi-autobiographical song with "La mauvaise réputation" ("Bad Reputation") about growing up in a little village feeling different to other people. And he made it his signature piece, an humorous anarchist chant. You know, good folks don't like it if you take a different road than they do ("les braves gens n'aiment pas que l'on suive une autre route qu'eux")."

You Tube link


26. The Everly Brothers - All I Have to Do Is Dream

The Everly Brothers - All I Have to Do Is Dream / Claudette

Points: 493
Biggest fans: Brad (#1), Listyguy (#7), Henrik and Miguel (#22)
Position in AM 3000: #24 of the 1950s and #174 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #3
Style: Pop
Written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant
Recorded by The Everly Brothers on March 6, 1958
Released on April 7, 1958 on Cadence label (1348 )

Comments: Wikipedia: "It is the only single to be at #1 on all of Billboard's singles charts simultaneously, on June 2, 1958. It first reached #1 on the "Most played by Jockeys" and "Top 100" charts on May 19, 1958, and remained there for five and three weeks, respectively; with the August 1958 introduction of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, the song ended the year at #2. "All I Have to Do Is Dream" also hit number one on the R&B charts as well as becoming The Everly Brothers' third number one on the country chart."

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 25-21

The Top 25


25. Chuck Berry - Roll Over Beethoven



Points: 501
Biggest fans: sonofsamiam (#10), Henry (#14), Miguel and Mindrocker (#16)
Position in AM 3000: #55 of the 1950s and #520 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #3
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Chuck Berry
Recorded by Chuck Berry and His Combo in 1956
Released in May 1956 on Chess label (#1626)

Comments: Cub Koda for allmusic: "Chuck Berry supposedly wrote this masterpiece in response to his sister hogging the family piano playing the classics while he wanted to jump on the keys and boogie-woogie. True or not, the song -- and its lyrical message -- became one of the early signposts of '50s rock & roll, one that delineated a simple message: rock & roll was the newest, coolest music there was and it was going to wipe all the old fuddy-duddy sounds off the board forever. While it didn't do exactly that, it did become one of the clarion calls of the new music, helping to define its sound as well."

You Tube link


24. Chuck Berry - Maybellene



Points: 502
Biggest fans: Henry (#14), Miguel (#11), Listyguy (#13)
Position in AM 3000: #12 of the 1950s and #81 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #4
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Chuck Berry, Russell Fratto and Alan Freed
Recorded by Chuck Berry and His Combo on May 21, 1955 at Universal Recording Studios in Chicago, Illinois
Released in July 1955 on Chess label (#1604)

Comments: Wikipedia: " According to Berry, his favorite song to sing at "salt and pepper clubs" as he called them, (black and white clubs) was the country song "Ida Red", an uptempo dance number recorded by country singer Roy Acuff in 1939. With encouragement from Muddy Waters, Berry in 1955 brought to Chess Records a tape of his cover of the tune which he had renamed "Ida May" and a blues song he wrote "Wee Wee Hours" (...) To Berry's surprise, Leonard Chess showed little interest in the blues material but was enthusiastic about the commercial possibilities in a "hillbilly song sung by a black man". Chess wanted a bigger beat for the song and added a bass and maracas player to the trio at the recording session. He also felt the titles "Ida Red" and "Ida May" were "too rural". Spotting a mascara box on the floor of the studio, according to Berry's partner Johnnie Johnson, Chess said, "Well, hell, let’s name the damn thing Maybellene" altering the spelling to avoid a suit by the cosmetic company. The lyrics were rewritten at the direction of Chess as well. "The kids wanted the big beat, cars, and young love, " Chess recalled. "It was the trend and we jumped on it"."

You Tube link


23. Elvis Presley - That's All Right



Points: 504
Biggest fans: Alex D (#4), nicolas (#12), Brad (#20)
Position in AM 3000: #9 of the 1950s and #72 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #2
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Arthur Crudup
Recorded by Elvis Presley, Scotty and Bill on July 5, 1954 at Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee
Released on July 19, 1955 on Sun label (#209)

Comments: nicolas: "The very first cut is the deepest. I'm one of those Sun sessions fan. That sound is just incredible, and the musicians express themselves freely. Then Elvis, little by little, became one more pop idol, some sort of standardized good for the American market."

You Tube link


22. Howlin' Wolf - Smoke Stack Lightning



Points: 504
Biggest fans: Mindrocker (#5), Charlie Driggs (#6), nicolas (#20)
Position in AM 3000: #50 of the 1950s and #400 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #6
Style: Chicago Blues
Written by Chester Burnett (aka Howlin' Wolf)
Recorded by Howlin' Wolf in January 1954 in Chicago, Illinois
Released in March 1956 on Chess label (#1618)

Comments: Bill Janovitz for allmusic: " "Smokestack Lightning" seems almost like a distillation of the essence of the blues; it is almost all one riff, with no chord changes, with Wolf growling and, yes, howling in a falsetto. (...) It is a pleasingly primitive and raw representation of the blues, pure and chant-like. Wolf truly sounds like a man in otherwise inexpressible agony, flailing for words, bawling, "Smokestack lightning/Shining like gold/Oh, don't you hear me crying?" "

You Tube link


21. Little Richard - Good Golly, Miss Molly



Points: 511
Biggest fans: Listyguy (#8 ), Mindrocker (#9), Brad (#10)
Position in AM 3000: #33 of the 1950s and #254 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #5
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by John Marascalclo and Robert 'Bumps' Blackwell
Recorded by Little Richard on October 15, 1956 at J&M Studios in New Orleans, Louisiana
Released on January 13, 1958 on Specialty label (#624)

Comments: Robert Fontenot for About.com: "By 1958, Little Richard had already thrown his jewels in the river, renouncing rock and roll after a shaky plane ride to Australia. Fortunately, Specialty graced the charts with one last unreleased, salacious smoker, the final cut from the legendary '56 New Orleans sessions. The title was the catchphrase of DJ Jimmy Pennick; the intro was swiped directly from Jackie Brenston's "Rocket 88." "

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 25-21

Honorio
21. Little Richard - Good Golly, Miss Molly



Points: 511
Biggest fans: Listyguy (#8 ), Mindrocker (#9), Brad (#10)
Position in AM 3000: #33 of the 1950s and #254 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #5
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by John Marascalclo and Robert 'Bumps' Blackwell
Recorded by Little Richard on October 15, 1956 at J&M Studios in New Orleans, Louisiana
Released on January 13, 1958 on Specialty label (#624)

Comments: Robert Fontenot for About.com: "By 1958, Little Richard had already thrown his jewels in the river, renouncing rock and roll after a shaky plane ride to Australia. Fortunately, Specialty graced the charts with one last unreleased, salacious smoker, the final cut from the legendary '56 New Orleans sessions. The title was the catchphrase of DJ Jimmy Pennick; the intro was swiped directly from Jackie Brenston's "Rocket 88." "

You Tube link


One down, one to go.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 20-16

20. Miles Davis - All Blues



Points: 518
Biggest fans: Mindrocker (#2), Alex D (#3), sonofsamiam (#11)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1959 poll: #7
Style: Cool Jazz
Written by Miles Davis
Recorded by Miles Davis Quintet on Apirl 6, 1959 at Columbia 30th Street Studios in New York City
Released on August 17, 1959 on Columbia label (#CS 8163)

Comments: Thomas Ward for allmusic: " "All Blues" is somewhat of an oddity on "Kind of Blue" – it's played in 6/8 time played in the standard blues form of 12 measures. "All Blues" nevertheless is based on modal improvisation, and Davis' own free melodic conception. "All Blues" was a live staple throughout much of Davis' career, and it's easy to see why – the tune is built upon the melodic brilliance of Davis' trumpet, which even Coltrane fails to upstage during his solo."

You Tube link and Part Two


19. Buddy Holly - Peggy Sue



Points: 519
Biggest fans: Alex D (#8 ), Henry (#11), Miguel (#13)
Position in AM 3000: #16 of the 1950s and #100 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #5
Style: Rockabilly
Written by Buddy Holly, Jerry Allison and Norman Petty
Recorded by Buddy Holly on June 29 and July 1, 1957 at W 7th St Studio in Clovis, New Mexico
Released on September 20, 1957 on Coral label (#61885)

Comments: Bill Dahl for allmusic: "Throbbing paradiddles by innovative drummer Jerry Allison propelling it onward like a skyrocket, "Peggy Sue" stands as one of Buddy Holly's crowning achievements during a tragically truncated career. Holly's hiccupping vocals were seldom more charming; his crashing guitar solo was a rousing barrage of savage Tex-Mex chords, Allison's drumming brought a new dimension to rock & roll timekeeping, and the song's chord sequence was just distinctive enough to stand tall during a year that was absolutely filled to bursting with seminal rock & roll platters."

You Tube link


18. Eddie Cochran - Summertime Blues



Points: 520
Biggest fans: nicolas (#9), Mindrocker (#10), Listyguy (#14)
Position in AM 3000: #11 of the 1950s and #79 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #2
Style: Rockabilly
Written by Eddie Cochran and Jerry Capeheart
Recorded by Buddy Holly on March 28, 1958 at Goldstar Studio in Hollywwod, California
Released on July 21, 1958 on Liberty label (#55144)

Comments: nicolas: "The archetypal 50s song, witty, made with almost nothing (a guitar riff), with these lyrics that just capture their time and their public (teens)."

You Tube link


17. Little Richard - Long Tall Sally



Points: 522
Biggest fans: Listyguy (#1), nicolas (#5), Henry (#19)
Position in AM 3000: #32 of the 1950s and #241 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #8
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Richard Penniman (aka Little Richard), Enotris Johnson and Robert 'Bumps' Blackwell
Recorded by Little Richard and his Band on February 10, 1956 at J&M Studios in New Orleans, Louisiana
Released in March 1956 on Specialty label (#572)

Comments:
nicolas: "He and Jerry Lee Lewis were both sides of the same coin. I can't think of one without seeing the other. A homosexual and a redneck, both terrified by the religious guilt that their music caused to them. But that tension was responsible of some of the most fiery performances ever waxed on records."
Listyguy: "Tough to chose between this and Jailhouse Rock for the 1 spot, but it the end, I have to give it to Little Richard, whose brilliant screaming in this song is irresistible."

You Tube link


16. The Crickets - That'll Be the Day



Points: 524
Biggest fans: Henry (#4), Listyguy (#9), Alex D (#10)
Position in AM 3000: #5 of the 1950s and #41 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #3
Style: Rockabilly
Written by Buddy Holly, Jerry Allison and Norman Petty
Recorded by The Crickets on February 22, 1957 at Norman Petty Recording Studio in Clovis, New Mexico
Released on May 27, 1957 on Brunswick label (#55009)

Comments: Bill Dahl for allmusic: "John Wayne would probably have been outraged had he known his swaggering delivery of a memorable line from John Ford's classic movie The Searchers inspired a pair of Lubbock, TX, lads to write a heathen piece of rock & roll by the same title. Nevertheless, that's precisely how Buddy Holly's seminal "That'll Be the Day" came into being; after viewing the Western, the guitarist and his pal Jerry Allison teamed to compose a song around the phrase (marking the first time the duo had written together)."

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 20-16

Working hard on my exams and I'm provided with the perfect soundtrack. I do keep getting distracted by all the details and comments, so I'm not studying as much as I need to, but you gotta set priorities in life.

Keep 'em coming Honorio!

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 20-16

DAMN IT!!!!
Long Tall Sally lost to Tutti Frutti!
Oh well, the top 20's pretty good.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 15-11

15. Little Richard - Tutti Frutti



Points: 532
Biggest fans: Henrik (#1), nicolas (#6), Listyguy (#16), Mindrocker (#24), Henry (#26)
Position in AM 3000: #4 of the 1950s and #28 of all time
Position in 1955 poll: #1
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Little Richard and Dorothy LaBostrie
Recorded by Little Richard and His Band on September 14, 1955 at J&M Studios in New Orleans, Louisiana
Released in November 1955 on Specialty label (#561)



Comments: Cub Koda for allmusic: " "Tutti Frutti" was the first rock & roll record where America got to hear an African-American gospel singer (Richard Penniman) sing with the brakes off. No amount of R&B crooning prepared the nation for the kind of culture shock that greeted most of them when the needle hit the disc and Little Richard started howling on the family phonograph; there had simply been nothing like him before this. (...) It all signaled the coming of rock & roll to the mainstream, spelling out R&R in blood red letters; this was not a record to be middle of the road about, it had its opponents who saw it as the beginning of the end of civilization as they knew it."

You Tube link


14. Bill Haley and His Comets - (We're Gonna) Rock Around the Clock



Points: 535
Biggest fans: Henry (#2), Miguel (#8 ), Honorio (#14), Listyguy (#18 ), Henrik (#20)
Position in AM 3000: #6 of the 1950s and #46 of all time
Position in 1954 poll: #1
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Jimmy De Knight and Max C Freeman
Recorded by Bill Haley and His Comets on April 12, 1954 at Pythian Temple Studios in New York City
Released on May 10, 1954 on Decca US label (#29124)



Comments: nicolas: "Bill Haley invented a lot of things, but he was not sexy, he was from the old world and nothing distinguished him from another country performer. Still he put together rock'n'roll. This song has been played a zillion times, lots of people danced and are still dancing on it, and it is still a great listening experience."

You Tube link


13. Jerry Lee Lewis - Great Balls of Fire



Points: 541
Biggest fans: Listyguy (#5), Henrik and nicolas (#8 ), Brad (#9), Mindrocker (#12)
Position in AM 3000: #17 of the 1950s and #125 of all time
Position in 1957 poll: #4
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Otis Blackwell and Jack Hammer
Recorded by Jerry Lee Lewis on October 8, 1957 at Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee
Released on November 11, 1957 on Sun label (#281)



Comments:
nicolas: "He and Little Richard were both sides of the same coin. I can't think of one without seeing the other. A homosexual and a redneck, both terrified by the religious guilt that their music caused to them. But that tension was responsible of some of the most fiery performances ever waxed on records."
Listyguy: "Perfect Piano Rock."

You Tube link


12. Hank Williams - Long Gone Lonesome Blues



Points: 545
Biggest fans: Honorio (#5), Charlie Driggs (#6), Miguel (#9), Brad (#22), Henrik (#24)
Position in AM 3000: not listed
Position in 1950 poll: #1
Style: Country
Written by Hank Williams
Recorded by Hank Williams with His Drifting Cowboys on January 9, 1950 at Castle Studios in Nashville, Tennessee
Released in March 1950 on MGM label (#10465)



Comments: Honorio: "So lonesome he could cry. Almost every root style made art from sorrow and pain, the best examples could be blues and flamenco but also tango or bolero. And country music, of course, with Hank Williams showcasing his command on yodeling and painting the perfect portrait of loneliness and despair, just like his own death on the back seat of a Cadillac. Alone. And blue."

You Tube link (I love this dreamy clip!)


11. Miles Davis - So What



Points: 546
Biggest fans: sonofsamiam (#1), Alex D (#2), Henrik (#18), Mindrocker (#23), Henry and Listyguy (#30)
Position in AM 3000: #63 of the 1950s and #663 of all time
Position in 1959 poll: #5
Style: Cool Jazz
Written by Miles Davis
Recorded by Miles Davis on March 2, 1959 at Columbia 30th Street Studios in New York City
Released on August 17, 1959 on Columbia label (#CS 8163) as the first track of the album "Kind of Blue"



Comments: Santi Carrillo for Rockdelux: "A sextet in levitation, without previous rehearsals or preestablished borders. Pure music flowing in harmony, filling the space with past and future. The improvisation as discipline or the sound of the genius. True blues."

You Tube link

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 10-8

The Top 10

Here I go again, I got the pleasure of posting another fantastic Top 10 on Acclaimed Music Forum. As I told before only three songs were on Acclaimed Music Top 10 too. And three other songs were not even in AM Top 50!! (and, you will see, they BELONG to the Top 10). I’m particularly happy to see the songs #9, #7, #5 and #2 reaching the Top 10 but in fact I’m delighted with every song selected, from now on you are going to find nothing but masterpieces here.


10. Elvis Presley - Heartbreak Hotel



Points: 552
Biggest fans: Mindrocker (#3), Brad and Henry (#13), Listyguy (#15), Charlie Driggs (#24)
Position in AM 3000: #2 of the 1950s and #14 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #1
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Moe Boren Axton, Thomas Durden and Elvis Presley
Recorded by Elvis Presley on January 10, 1956 at RCA Studios in Nashville, Tennessee
Musicians: Elvis Presley (vocals), Scotty Moore (guitar), Bill Black (bass), DJ Fontana (drums), Chet Atkins (guitar), Floyd Cramer (piano), Steve Sholes (producer)
Released on January 27, 1956 on RCA Victor label (#47-6420)



Comments: Wiiliam Ruhlmann for allmusic: "It was written by Tommy Durden and Mae Boren Axton. Durden had seen a newspaper article about a person who had committed suicide, leaving a note that read, "I walk a lonely street," and was inspired to write a song about a hotel that people who have had their hearts broken can check into. Not quite a blues, but certainly mournful, the song described a place where "the bellhop's tears keep flowing, the desk clerk's dressed in black" and everyone is "so lonely they could die," which is actually the tag line of the chorus."

Original studio version
Legendary Elvis TV performance on Tommy Dorsey's Stage Show on February 11, 1956


9. Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton - Hound Dog



Points: 562
Biggest fans: Charlie Driggs (#5), Brad (#7), Henrik (#10), Honorio (#11), Mindrocker (#34)
Position in AM 3000: #59 of the 1950s and #599 of all time
Position in 1953 poll: #1
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller and Johnny Otis
Recorded by Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton with Kansas City Bill and Orchestra on August 13, 1952 in Los Angeles, California
Musicians: Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton (vocals), Pete Lewis (guitar), Albert Winston (bass), Devonia Williams (piano), Leard Bell (percussion) and Johnny Otis (drums, producer)
Released on January 1953 on Peacock label (#1612)



Comments: Bill Dahl for allmusic: "Young Caucasian songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller wrote their seminal collaboration "Hound Dog" for Johnny Otis protégée Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton as a tough down-home blues replete with ribald, double-entendre-laden lyrics that the 300-pound belter bit into with gusto. The Montgomery, AL-born Thornton was born to sing "Hound Dog"; her gruff, no-nonsense bark was urged forward by Pete Lewis' snapping lead guitar at the August 13, 1952, Los Angeles session for Don Robey's Houston-based Peacock Records. Red-hot bandleader Otis (among his other discoveries were singers Little Esther and Mel Walker) was producing the date and playing vibes, but he was forced to switch instruments when drummer Leard "K.C." Bell couldn't locate the proper backwoods groove. With Otis behind the traps and the horns laying out, everything came together -- even the band's barking to seal the number in genuine canine fashion."

Original studio version
Live version with Buddy Guy in 1965


8. Johnny Cash - I Walk the Line



Points: 573
Biggest fans: Brad (#2), Henrik (#5), Alex D (#9), Listyguy (#12), Henry (#23)
Position in AM 3000: #14 of the 1950s and #86 of all time
Position in 1956 poll: #5
Style: Country
Written by Johnny Cash
Recorded by Johnny Cash and Tennessee Two on April 2, 1956 at Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee
Musicians: Johnny Cash (guitar and vocals), Luther Perkins (guitar), Marshall Grant (bass), Sam Phillips (producer)
Released on May 19, 1956 on Sun label (#241)



Comments: Bob Dylan in Chronicles Vol. 1: "Johnny didn't have a piercing yell, but 10,000 years of culture fell from him. He could have been a cave dweller. He sounds like he's at the edge of the fire, or in the deep snow, or in a ghostly forest. The coolness of conscious, obvious strength, full tilt and vibrant with danger. I keep a close watch on this heart of mine. Indeed. I must have recited those lines to myself a million times. Johnny's voice was so big it made the world grow small, unusually low-pitched, dark and booming. He had the right band to match him. Rippling rhythm and cadence of click clack. Words that were the rule of law and backed by the power of God. When I first heard "I Walk The Line" so many years earlier, it sounded like a voice calling out, "What are you doing there, boy?" I was trying to keep my eyes wide open too."

Original studio version
First Cash TV appearance at The Tex Ritter Show in 1955

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 7-6

7. Jacques Brel - Ne me quitte pas



Points: 573
Biggest fans: Miguel and nicolas (#4), Honorio (#8 ), Henrik (#9), Mindrocker (#19)
Position in AM 3000: #139 of the 1950s and #1537 of all time
Position in 1959 poll: #4
Style: Chanson
Written by Jacques Brel
Recorded by Jacques Brel with François Rauber et son orchestre on September 11, 1959
Musicians: Jacques Brel (vocals), Sylvette Alart (ondes Martenot), François Rauber or Gérard Jouanest (piano), François Rauber (orchestra conductor and producer)
Released in 1959 on Philips label as part of the EP "La valse à mille temps" (#402.371) or the album "Jacques Brel Nº 4" (#840.907)



Comments:
Honorio: "It's impossible to write a deeper and more desperate plea for love. It's impossible to go as high as these unreachable promises ("I'll offer you rain pearls / coming from countries where it never rains") and as low as this pitiful humiliation ("Let me become the shadow of your hand"). And it's impossible to perform it with more passion and emotional involvement."
nicolas: "Ballsy. Piaf said about this song "No man should ever sing this". But Brel did."

Original studio version (it’s unbelievable but the original 1959 studio version with the beautiful ondes Martenot arrangement was nowhere to be found on the web so I’ve decided to upload it myself , hope you enjoy the clip)
Passionate TV live performance in 1966


6. Johnny Cash - Folsom Prison Blues



Points: 578
Biggest fans: sonofsamiam (#2), Alex D (#7), Henrik (#11), Honorio (#16), Charlie Driggs (#18 )
Position in AM 3000: #19 of the 1950s and #131 of all time
Position in 1955 poll: #3
Style: Country
Written by Johnny Cash
Recorded by Johnny Cash and Tennessee Two on July 30, 1955 at Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee
Musicians: Johnny Cash (guitar and vocals), Luther Perkins (guitar), Marshall Grant (bass), Sam Phillips (producer)
Released on December 15, 1955 on Sun label (#232)



Comments: nicolas: "Two of the main subjects of pre-war blues and country music (prisons and trains) in one song, with this new rockabilly song written by a GI from Arkansas in Germany. The beginning of a great legend."

Original studio version
There is no video available of the mythical concert at Folsom Prison in 1968 but I found images from the no less mythical Live at San Quentin in 1969

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 7-6

Great list guys... I know next to nothing about '50s music, so I'm definitely gonna use this as a primer of sorts.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 7-6

Great to see two Johnny Cash songs in the top 10. I'm surprised "So What" wasn't ranked higher given Kind of Blue's romp in the albums poll.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 5-4

The two biggest surprises of the poll comes now (because Brel in the Top 10 was no so surprising in the context of Acclaimed Music Forum): Elvis managed to put "Mystery Train" ahead the more predictable "Heartbreak Hotel" but especially we gave a brilliant #4 position to the do-wop masterpiece "I Only Have Eyes for You". Oh yeah!


5. Elvis Presley - Mystery Train



Points: 589
Biggest fans: Honorio (#1), Listyguy (#4), Mindrocker (#7), sonofsamiam (#9), Alex D (#22)
Position in AM 3000: #13 of the 1950s and #83 of all time
Position in 1955 poll: #2
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Junior Parker and Sam Phillips
Recorded by Elvis Presley, Scotty and Bill on July 11, 1955 at Sun Studios, Memphis, Tennessee
Musicians: Elvis Presley (vocals and guitar), Scotty Moore (guitar), Bill Black (bass), Johnny Bernero (drums), Sam Phillips (producer)
Released on August 20, 19559 on Sun label (#223)



Comments: Honorio: "At 1'46" Elvis jumps right in and begins to sing the melody a little too early. Any other producer could have insisted in recording another take. But not Sam Philips. The important thing for Phillips (and for Elvis!) was not the perfection, it was the spontaneity, the feeling, the uniqueness, they aimed to capture the moment. That's how they invented rock & roll."

Original studio version
Elvis continued playing it live throughout his career, this is a live version from 1977, a few months before his death


4. The Flamingos - I Only Have Eyes for You



Points: 589
Biggest fans: Brad (#3), sonofsamiam (#4), Henrik (#7), Henry (#10), Alex D (#17)
Position in AM 3000: #30 of the 1950s and #238 of all time
Position in 1959 poll: #2
Style: Do-Wop
Written by Harry Warren and Al Dubin
Recorded by The Flamingos in 1959 in New York City
Musicians: Nate Nelson (first tenor and drums), Tommy Hunt (second tenor and piano), Zeke Carey (third tenor and bass), Paul Wilson (baritone), Jake Carey (bass vocals), Terry Johnson (guitar and producer).
Released in April 1959 on End label (#1046)



Comments: Jason Ankeny for allmusic: "Universally hailed as one of the finest and most influential vocal groups in pop music history, the Flamingos defined doo wop at its most elegant and sophisticated, their matchless harmonies profoundly impacting the Motown Sound of the 1960s and the Philly soul of the following decade."

Original studio version

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 3-2

3. Ray Charles - What'd I Say



Points: 604
Biggest fans: nicolas (#3), Alex D and Listyguy (#6), Henry (#9), sonofsamiam (#14)
Position in AM 3000: #3 of the 1950s and #27 of all time
Position in 1959 poll: #3
Style: Rhythm & Blues
Written by Ray Charles
Recorded by Ray Charles and His Orchestra on February 18, 1959 at Atlantic Studios, New York City
Musicians: Ray Charles (vocals and electric piano), Edgar Wills (bass), Milt Turner (drums), Marcus Belgrave and John Hunt (trumpets), David Newman (tenor sax), Bennie Crawford (baritone sax), The Raelettes (Margie Hendricks, Darlene McCrea, Patricia Lyles and Gwendolyn Berry, backing vocals), Jerry Wexler (producer)
Released in June 1959 on Atlantic label (#2031) divided in two parts on every side of the single due to its length (6'25"), the first release of the complete version was in 1960 as the first track of the album "What'd I Say" (Atlantic 8029)



Comments:
Listyguy: "Funk? I don't know, but still awesome."
nicolas: "Made out of an improvisation, this song is the best Ray did during those key years when he - with a handful of other musicians- united gospel and blues in a sort of unholy embrace that would change the face of black music."

Original studio version
Incendiary live version at Newport Jazz Festival in 1960


2. Dave Brubeck Quartet - Take Five



Points: 683
Biggest fans: Alex D (#1), Henry (#3), Honorio (#4), sonofsamiam (#5), Henrik (#6)
Position in AM 3000: #72 of the 1950s and #759 of all time
Position in 1959 poll: #1
Style: Cool Jazz
Written by Paul Desmond
Recorded by the Dave Brubeck Quartet on July 1, 1959 at Columbia's 30th Street Studios, New York City
Musicians: Dave Brubeck (piano), Paul Desmond (alto sax), Eugene Wright (bass), Joe Morello (drums), Teo Macero (producer).
Released in October 1959 on Columbia label (#41479) in an edited version (2'50") and as the third track of the album "Time Out" (Columbia CL 1397) in the full-length version (5'24")



Comments: Honorio: "Despite being played a billion times as background music in cafés (and elevators and dentist offices) the song hasn't lost any ounce of its greatness, of its natural sophistication (if I'm allowed to put together those antagonistic words). Probably it's because it creates an easy mood not being at the core easy at all, it simultaneously stimulates and relaxes your brain."

Original studio version
Live TV performance in 1961 at a faster tempo.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: position 1

The number One

So finally the battle between Hank Williams and Elvis Presley was won by Chuck Berry that easily got the number 1 of our poll (allthough if we count the total points of every artist Elvis would be #1 with 3661 points, Williams #2 with 3056 and Berry #3 with 2222). Another interesting battle was between New York City and Tennessee, 5 of the songs of the Top 15 were recorded in New York and... (drum roll) 6 in Tennessee (in the cities of Memphis and Nashville). The rest of the songs on the Top 15 were recorded in Paris, Los Angeles and New Orleans. And our number 1 was recorded in Chicago, Illinois. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome...


1. Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode



Points: 718
Biggest fans: Henry (#1), Honorio and nicolas (#2), Listyguy (#3), Alex D and Henrik (#13)
Position in AM 3000: #1 of the 1950s and #13 of all time
Position in 1958 poll: #1
Style: Rock & Roll
Written by Chuck Berry
Recorded by Chuck Berry on March 31, 1958 at Chess Studios, Chicago, Illinois
Musicians: Chuck Berry (vocals, lead and rhythm guitar), Lafayette Leake (piano), Willie Dixon (bass), Fred Below (drums), Little 'Bongo' Kraus (producer)
Released on March 31, 1958 on Chess label (#1691)



Comments:
Listyguy: "The guitar anthem of the 50's, if not of all time."
nicolas: "Seminal rock'n'roll song. The Matrix of all guitar intros."
Honorio: "Chuck Berry hit the target accurately and wrote an everlasting rock & roll anthem from an almost autobiographical rags-to-riches story but with one big difference. Berry "could play the guitar just like a ringin' a bell" also, but while Johnny B. Goode "never ever learned to read or write so well" Chuck Berry was one of the best writers of rock 'n' roll lyrics ever."

Original studio version
Live TV performance in the early 60s showcasing all his stage tricks.



And that was all boys. Next the individual Top 10s and the Excel file. Many thanks to all the people that voted. Hope you enjoyed the show...

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 3-2

A splendid 50s countdown, Honorio. Funny by the way how all the participants differed on their choice for the top spot. Even Johnny B. Goode, the final number one, got only one no.1 vote.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: positions 3-2

Johnny B. Goode is a fantastic song and a great choice for number one. Awesome job presenting the poll, Honorio. On to the 60s!

Re: The 1950s songs poll: position 1

Another great list from us! And another great show! Special thanks to Honorio and a big thanks to every voter as well. Sometime I have to pinch my arm as it's hard to believe that I have a forum with so many nice people and so much knowledge. Thanks!!

Re: The 1950s songs poll: position 1

Great job Honorio. I wish "Take Five" had taken the top spot but the Flamingos at #4 is fantastic (that's about where I'd put it if I were making the list today).

Re: The 1950s songs poll: position 1

Henrik
Another great list from us! And another great show! Special thanks to Honorio and a big thanks to every voter as well. Sometime I have to pinch my arm as it's hard to believe that I have a forum with so many nice people and so much knowledge. Thanks!!


This forum seems to attract a great group of participants. Honorio is the master at poll result presentation. Now, if only he could be compensated in some remunerative manner

Re: The 1950s songs poll: the individual Top 10s

Many thanks everyone for your nice comments (I especially agree about the remuneration).


Alex D:
1. Dave Brubeck Quartet - Take Five
2. Miles Davis - So What
3. Miles Davis - All Blues
4. Elvis Presley - That's All Right
5. Sam Cooke - You Send Me
6. Ray Charles - What'd I Say
7. Johnny Cash - Folsom Prison Blues
8. Buddy Holly - Peggy Sue
9. Johnny Cash - I Walk the Line
10. The Crickets - That'll Be the Day


Brad:
1. The Everly Brothers - All I Have to Do Is Dream
2. Johnny Cash - I Walk the Line
3. The Flamingos - I Only Have Eyes for You
4. Frank Sinatra - I've Got You Under My Skin
5. Professor Longhair - Mardi Gras in New Orleans
6. Duke Ellington - The Tattooed Bride
7. Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton - Hound Dog
8. Muddy Waters - Mannish Boy
9. Jerry Lee Lewis - Great Balls of Fire
10. Little Richard - Good Golly, Miss Molly


Charlie Driggs:
1. Bobby Bland - I'll Take Care of You
2. Yma Sumac - Ataypura (High Andes)
3. Peggy Lee - Fever
4. Bulawayo Sweet Rhythms Band - Skokiaan
5. Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton - Hound Dog
6. Hank Williams - Long Gone Lonesome Blues
7. Moondog Theme and Variations
8. Vince Taylor - Brand New Cadillac
9. Jimmy Forrest - Night Train
10. Link Wray - Rumble


Henrik:
1. Little Richard - Tutti Frutti
2. Frank Sinatra - In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning
3. Gene Kelly - Singin' in the Rain
4. Flatt & Scruggs Foggy Mountain Breakdown
5. Johnny Cash - I Walk the Line
6. Dave Brubeck Quartet - Take Five
7. The Flamingos - I Only Have Eyes for You
8. Jerry Lee Lewis - Great Balls of Fire
9. Jacques Brel - Ne me quitte pas
10. Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton - Hound Dog


Henry:
1. Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode
2. Bill Haley - Rock Around the Clock
3. Dave Brubeck Quartet - Take Five
4. The Crickets - That'll Be the Day
5. Chuck Berry - Maybellene
6. Elvis Presley - Don't Be Cruel
7. Elvis Presley - Hound Dog
8. Sam Cooke - You Send Me
9. Ray Charles - What'd I Say
10. The Flamingos - I Only Have Eyes for You


Honorio:
1. Elvis Presley - Mystery Train
2. Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode
3. Georges Brassens - La mauvaise réputation
4. Dave Brubeck Quartet - Take Five
5. Hank Williams - Long Gone Lonesome Blues
6. Gerry Mulligan Quartet - My Funny Valentine
7. Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong - Dream a a Little Dream of Me
8. Jacques Brel - Ne me quitte pas
9. Frank Sinatra - I've Got You Under My Skin
10. Nina Simone - My Baby Just Cares for Me


Listyguy:
1. Little Richard - Long Tall Sally
2. Elvis Presley - Jailhouse Rock
3. Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode
4. Elvis Presley - Mystery Train
5. Jerry Lee Lewis - Great Balls of Fire
6. Ray Charles - What'd I Say
7. The Everly Brothers - All I Have to Do Is Dream
8. Little Richard Good Golly, Miss Molly
9. The Crickets - That'll Be the Day
10. Elvis Presley - Hound Dog


Miguel:
1. Jackie Wilson - Reet Petite (The Finest Girl You Ever Want to Meet)
2. Les Paul & Mary Ford - How High the Moon
3. Édith Piaf - Milord
4. Jacques Brel - Ne me quitte pas
5. Elvis Presley - All Shook Up
6. The Everly Brothers - Bye Bye Love
7. The Platters - Smoke Gets in Your Eyes
8. Bill Haley - Rock Around the Clock
9. Hank Williams - Long Gone Lonesome Blues
10. Jackie Wilson - Lonely Teardrops


Mindrocker:
1. Bobby Bland - I'll Take Care of You
2. Miles Davis - All Blues
3. Elvis Presley - Heartbreak Hotel
4. Hank Williams - Ramblin' Man
5. Howlin' Wolf - Smoke Stack Lightning
6. Charles Mingus - Better Git It in Your Soul
7. Elvis Presley - Mystery Train
8. The Crickets - Not Fade Away
9. Little Richard - Good Golly, Miss Molly
10. Eddie Cochran - Summertime Blues


nicolas:
1. Georges Brassens - Le gorille
2. Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode
3. Ray Charles - What'd I Say
4. Jacques Brel - Ne me quitte pas
5. Little Richard - Long Tall Sally
6. Little Richard - Tutti Frutti
7. Georges Brassens - La marine
8. Jerry Lee Lewis - Great Balls of Fire
9. Eddie Cochran - Summertime Blues
10. Mahalia Jackson - In the Upper Room


sonofsamiam:
1. Miles Davis - So What
2. Johnny Cash - Folsom Prison Blues
3. Stan Kenton - City of Glass: Entrance into the City
4. The Flamingos - I Only Have Eyes for You
5. Dave Brubeck Quartet - Take Five
6. Howlin' Wolf - Smoke Stack Lightning
7. Charles Mingus - Better Git It in Your Soul
8. Frank Sinatra - I've Got You Under My Skin
9. Elvis Presley - Mystery Train
10. Chuck Berry - Roll Over Beethoven


The Excel file for the 1950s albums and songs

Many thanks again, see you in the 60s

Re: The 1950s songs poll: the individual Top 10s

Sorry for not taking part...here's my take on the 50's songs in this poll:

1. Miles Davis - So What
2. Johnny Cash - Folsom Prison Blues (live)
3. Les Paul & Mary Ford - How High the Moon
4. The Flamingos - I Only Have Eyes for You
5. Flatt & Scruggs - Foggy Mountain Breakdown
6. Bulawayo Sweet Rhythms Band - Skokiaan (Bert Kaempfert did the definitive version)
7. Charles Mingus - Better Git It in Your Soul
8. Link Wray - Rumble
9. Elvis Presley - Mystery Train
10. Dave Brubeck Quartet - Take Five

HM: Buddy Holly

Re: The 1950s songs poll: the individual Top 10s

Thank you very much, Honorio. We have another great reference encyclopedia.

Thanks also to all voters.

Re: The 1950s songs poll: the individual Top 10s

merci beaucoup Honorio

Re: The 1950s songs poll: the list

1. Berry, Chuck - Johnny B. Goode - 1958
2. Brubeck, Dave - Take Five - 1959
3. Charles, Ray - What'd I Say - 1959
4. Flamingos, The - I Only Have Eyes for You - 1959
5. Presley, Elvis - Mystery Train - 1955
6. Cash, Johnny - Folsom Prison Blues - 1955
7. Brel, Jacques - Ne me quitte pas - 1959
8. Cash, Johnny - I Walk the Line - 1956
9. Thornton, Willie Mae 'Big Mama' - Hound Dog - 1953
10. Presley, Elvis - Heartbreak Hotel - 1956
11. Davis, Miles - So What - 1959
12. Williams, Hank - Long Gone Lonesome Blues - 1950
13. Lewis, Jerry Lee - Great Balls of Fire - 1957
14. Haley, Bill and His Comets - Rock Around the Clock - 1954
15. Little Richard - Tutti Frutti - 1955
16. Crickets, The - That'll Be the Day - 1957
17. Little Richard - Long Tall Sally - 1956
18. Cochran, Eddie - Summertime Blues - 1958
19. Holly, Buddy - Peggy Sue - 1957
20. Davis, Miles - All Blues - 1959
21. Little Richard - Good Golly, Miss Molly - 1958
22. Howlin' Wolf - Smoke Stack Lightning - 1956
23. Presley, Elvis - That's All Right - 1954
24. Berry, Chuck - Maybellene - 1955
25. Berry, Chuck - Roll Over Beethoven - 1956
26. Everly Brothers, The - All I Have to Do Is Dream - 1958
27. Brassens, Georges - La mauvaise réputation - 1952
28. Flatt & Scruggs - Foggy Mountain Breakdown - 1950
29. Wray, Link - Rumble - 1958
30. Sinatra, Frank - I've Got You Under My Skin - 1956
31. Presley, Elvis - Jailhouse Rock - 1957
32. Bland, Bobby - I'll Take Care of You 1959
33. Simone, Nina - My Baby Just Cares for Me - 1958
34. Mingus, Charles - Better Git It in Your Soul - 1959
35. Presley, Elvis - Hound Dog - 1956
36. Diddley, Bo - Bo Diddley - 1955
37. Baker, Chet - My Funny Valentine - 1954
38. Williams, Hank - Ramblin' Man - 1951
39. Paul, Les & Ford, Mary - How High the Moon - 1951
40. Crickets, The - Not Fade Away - 1957
41. Presley, Elvis - All Shook Up - 1957
42. Kelly, Gene - Singin' in the Rain - 1952
43. Cooke, Sam - You Send Me - 1957
44. Lewis, Jerry Lee - Whole Lot of Shakin' Going On - 1957
45. Presley, Elvis - Don't Be Cruel - 1956
46. Waters, Muddy - Mannish Boy - 1955
47. Jackson, Mahalia - In the Upper Room - 1952
48. Everly Brothers, The - Bye Bye Love - 1957
49. Brassens, Georges - Le gorille - 1952
50. Vincent, Gene - Be-Bop-a-Lula - 1956
51. Sumac, Yma - Xtabay (Lure of the Unknown Love) - 1950
52. James, Elmore - Dust My Broom - 1951
53. Ellington, Duke - The Tattooed Bride - 1951
54. Lee, Peggy - Fever - 1958
55. Charles, Ray - I've Got a Woman - 1954
56. Waters, Muddy - Rollin' Stone - 1950
57. Bulawayo Sweet Rhythms Band - Skokiaan - 1954
58. Professor Longhair - Mardi Gras in New Orleans - 1950
59. Platters, The - Smoke Gets in Your Eyes - 1958
60. Sumac, Yma - Ataypura (High Andes) - 1950
61. Williams, Hank - Your Cheatin' Heart - 1953
62. Sinatra, Frank - In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning - 1955
63. Piaf, Edith - Milord - 1959
64. Platters, The - The Great Pretender - 1955
65. Fitzgerald, Ella & Armstrong, Louis - Dream a Little Dream of Me - 1950
66. Kenton, Stan - City of Glass: Entrance into the City - 1952
67. Moondog - Theme and Variations - 1953
68. Taylor, Vince - Brand New Cadillac - 1959
69. Brenston, Jackie - Rocket "88" - 1951
70. Brassens, Georges - La marine - 1953
71. Wilson, Jackie - Lonely Teardrops - 1958
72. Powell, Bud - Un Poco Loco - 1951
73. Berry, Chuck - Sweet Little Sixteen - 1958
74. Mulligan, Gerry - My Funny Valentine - 1952
75. Domino, Fats - Ain't It a Shame - 1955
76. Williams, Hank - Jambalaya (On the Bayou) - 1952
77. Charles, Ray - Mess Around - 1953
78. Williams, Hank - Kaw-Liga - 1953
79. Vian, Boris - Le déserteur - 1955
80. Price, Lloyd - Lawdy Miss Clawdy - 1952
81. Chordettes, The - Mr. Sandman - 1954
82. Waters, Muddy - I'm Your Hoochie Cooche Man - 1954
83. Forrest, Jimmy - Night Train - 1952
84. Pérez Prado - Mambo No. 5 - 1950
85. Piaf, Edith - Padam… Padam - 1951
86. Wilson, Jackie - Reet Petite (The Finest Girl You Ever Want to Meet) - 1957
87. Parker, Charlie - Bloomdido - 1950
88. Orioles, The - Crying in the Chapel - 1953
89. Professor Longhair - Tipitina - 1954
90. Domino, Fats - Going to the River - 1953
91. Williams, Hank - Take These Chains From My Heart - 1953
92. Penguins, The - Earth Angel (Will You Be Mine) - 1954
93. Belafonte, Harry - Banana Boat (Day-O) - 1956
94. Cage, John - 4'33" - 1952
95. Williams, Hank - Cold Cold Heart - 1951
96. Williams, Hank - Hey, Good Lookin' - 1951
97. Cole, Nat 'King' - Unforgettable - 1951
98. Pierce, Webb - There Stands the Glass - 1953
99. Turner, Big Joe - Shake, Rattle and Roll - 1954
100. Cole, Nat 'King' - Mona Lisa - 1950