Big Joe Turner's "Rock & Roll," released in November 1957 under the Atlantic Recording Corporation label, is a vibrant and energetic collection of 14 tracks that encapsulate the spirit of early rock and roll. This album is a testament to Turner's influential role in shaping the genre, blending elements of boogie-woogie, blues, and swing music into a dynamic and infectious sound.
The album kicks off with the iconic "Shake, Rattle and Roll," a song that helped define the rock and roll era and showcases Turner's powerful vocals and charismatic delivery. Other standout tracks include "Flip Flop and Fly," a lively and upbeat number that highlights Turner's knack for catchy melodies, and "Boogie Woogie Country Girl," a boogie-woogie classic that gets your feet tapping. The album also features a mix of blues standards like "Corrine Corrina" and "The Chicken and the Hawk (Up, Up and Away)," as well as original compositions that showcase Turner's songwriting prowess.
"Rock & Roll" is not just a collection of songs; it's a celebration of Big Joe Turner's unique style and his significant contributions to the development of rock and roll. With a duration of just under 40 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful journey through the early days of the genre, featuring a blend of genres that will appeal to fans of classic blues, rockabilly, and doo-wop. Whether you're a longtime fan of Big Joe Turner or a newcomer to his music, "Rock & Roll" is an essential addition to any music collection.