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Early Rock
hit songs by year
Genres
Elvis
100

This King of Rock 'n' Roll's famous hit “Hound Dog” became a chart-topping sensation in 1956.

Who is Elvis Presley?

100

This song by Bill Haley & His Comets is considered one of the first mainstream rock and roll hits, released in 1954.

What is "Rock Around the Clock"?

100

In 1957, this song by Paul Anka became a classic, with lyrics written when he was just 16.

What is “Diana”?

100

This genre, characterized by vocal harmonies and catchy rhythms, was popularized by groups like The Platters in the 1950s.

What is Doo-Wop?

100

Elvis made his first television appearance on this show in 1956, where he famously shook his hips, shocking audiences.

What is "The Ed Sullivan Show"?

200

Known for his hit "Johnny B. Goode," this musician is considered one of the pioneers of rock and roll.

Who is Chuck Berry?

200

This wild piano player, known for his energetic performances, recorded "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" in 1957.

Who is Jerry Lee Lewis?

200

This song, released in 1956, became Elvis Presley’s first #1 hit on the Billboard pop charts.

What is “Heartbreak Hotel”?

200

This genre, mixing country with rhythm and blues, was born in the late 1950s and was made famous by artists like Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis.

What is Rockabilly?

200

This 1957 song by Elvis, a love ballad, became one of his most beloved songs and helped solidify his status as a pop culture icon.

What is "Can't Help Falling in Love"?

300

This singer was known as “The Big Bopper” and tragically died in a plane crash alongside Buddy Holly and Ritchie Valens in 1959.

Who is J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson?

300

This rock and roll icon’s 1956 song "Blue Suede Shoes" became a major hit, blending rockabilly and country music.

Who is Carl Perkins?

300

In 1959, this song by The Platters became a hit and was later featured in the movie American Graffiti.

What is “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”?

300

Known for its slow tempos and sentimental lyrics, this genre’s hits often dealt with themes of love and heartbreak, with artists like Nat King Cole.

What is Traditional Pop?

300

Elvis’ first movie role was in this 1956 film, where he starred alongside actress Deborah Walley.

What is "Love Me Tender"?

400

Known as the "Queen of Rockabilly," this artist was famous for her hit “Funnel of Love.”

Who is Wanda Jackson?

400

This "Shake, Rattle and Roll" singer is considered one of the pioneers of rhythm and blues, influencing the early rock movement in the 1950s.

Who is Big Joe Turner?

400

This 1958 song by Bobby Day became a popular tune, often associated with a fun, carefree vibe.

What is “Rockin' Robin”?

400

A genre popularized by artists like Ray Charles, this style combined elements of blues, jazz, and gospel.

What is Rhythm and Blues (R&B)?

400

This 1958 Elvis single, known for its patriotic theme, was released during his time serving in the U.S. Army.

What is "G.I. Blues"?

500

This "Teenage Opera" singer rose to fame in the late 1950s with hits like "Venus" and "Mr. Sandman."

Who is Frankie Avalon?

500

This group, led by Clyde McPhatter, is often credited with influencing the doo-wop sound in the 1950s.

Who are The Drifters?

500

In 1955, this song by Chuck Berry became one of the most iconic in rock and roll history.

What is “Maybellene”?

500

This genre, full of upbeat rhythms and danceable tunes, was key to the early rock and roll sound, with artists like Chuck Berry and Fats Domino.

What is Rock 'n' Roll?

500

Elvis’ 1957 album, titled "Elvis' Christmas Album," became one of the best-selling holiday albums of all time. It featured this classic Christmas song.

  1. What is "Blue Christmas"?
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