About the song
“Wake Up Little Susie” by the Everly Brothers is a lively and memorable tune that captures the essence of 1950s rock and roll. Released in 1957, this song was written by the legendary songwriting duo Felice and Boudleaux Bryant. It became one of the Everly Brothers’ most iconic hits, showcasing their knack for blending catchy melodies with relatable storytelling.
The song is included in their self-titled debut album “The Everly Brothers,” and it quickly became a standout track. “Wake Up Little Susie” tells the story of a teenage couple who fall asleep at the drive-in movie, only to wake up past curfew and worry about the repercussions. With its playful and humorous lyrics, it perfectly captures the youthful innocence and concerns of the time. The chorus, “Wake up, little Susie, we gotta go home,” is instantly recognizable and has become a classic line in pop culture.
“Wake Up Little Susie” was a commercial success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Country Chart. It also enjoyed international acclaim, hitting the top of the charts in Canada and peaking at number two on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s upbeat tempo, combined with the Everly Brothers’ harmonious vocals, made it a favorite among fans and a frequent choice for radio play.
The production of “Wake Up Little Susie” is characterized by its clean, crisp sound, featuring acoustic guitars and a steady rhythm that highlights the duo’s vocal harmonies. This simplicity and clarity in production allowed the Everly Brothers’ natural talent to shine through, making the song both timeless and infectious.
Over the years, “Wake Up Little Susie” has been covered by numerous artists, attesting to its enduring popularity and influence. The song’s humorous and light-hearted take on a relatable situation has kept it relevant and beloved by new generations of listeners.
For many, “Wake Up Little Susie” is more than just a song; it is a nostalgic reminder of the early days of rock and roll and the cultural landscape of the 1950s. The Everly Brothers’ ability to blend humor, melody, and harmony in such a compelling way has ensured that “Wake Up Little Susie” remains a cherished classic. This song not only highlights their exceptional musical talents but also their unique ability to connect with audiences through timeless stories and unforgettable tunes.
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Lyrics
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
We’ve both been sound asleep, wake up, little Susie, and weep
The movie’s over, it’s four o’clock, and we’re in trouble deep
Wake up little Susie
Wake up little Susie
Well, what are we gonna tell your mama?
What are we gonna tell your pa?
What are we gonna tell our friends
When they say, “Ooh la la!”
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Well, I told your mama that you’d be in by ten
Well, Susie, baby looks like we goofed again
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
We gotta go home
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
Wake up, little Susie, wake up
The movie wasn’t so hot
It didn’t have much of a plot
We fell asleep
Our goose is cooked
Our reputation is shot
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Well, what are we gonna tell your mama
What are we gonna tell your pa?
What are we gonna tell our friends
When they say, “Ooh la la!”
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie
Wake up, little Susie