Roy Orbison – Go! Go! Go! | A Rockabilly Classic That Stands the Test of Time
Introduction to the Album
Roy Orbison, a name synonymous with timeless melodies and powerful vocal performances, is best remembered for his soaring ballads such as Oh, Pretty Woman and Crying. However, before reaching mainstream stardom with Monument Records, Orbison dabbled in the energetic world of rockabilly. One of his earliest recordings, Go! Go! Go!, is a rockabilly gem that captures the youthful exuberance of the 1950s.
Originally recorded in 1956 and later re-released under the title Down the Line, the song was part of Orbison’s Sun Records catalog. Sun Records, the legendary Memphis label founded by Sam Phillips, was a breeding ground for rock and country music pioneers like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Orbison’s association with Sun allowed him to experiment with the rockabilly sound, setting the stage for his later, more refined ballad-driven style. Although Go! Go! Go! was not included in a major album at the time of its release, it later became a treasured piece of music among rockabilly enthusiasts and was featured in various compilation albums dedicated to Orbison’s early works.
The Instruments and Sounds of Go! Go! Go!
Unlike the orchestral arrangements that later defined Roy Orbison’s career, Go! Go! Go! is pure rockabilly energy, featuring a raw and infectious sound driven by an ensemble of classic instruments.
1. Electric Guitar
The song prominently features an electric guitar with a twangy, reverb-laden tone that is typical of the rockabilly genre. The guitar riffs are sharp, fast-paced, and filled with the excitement that made 1950s rock music so compelling. The use of simple but effective chord progressions adds to the danceable, upbeat nature of the track.
2. Upright Bass
A hallmark of rockabilly music, the upright bass in Go! Go! Go! provides a strong rhythmic foundation. Played with a percussive slap technique, the bass contributes to the song’s bouncy and infectious groove. This technique was a staple of Sun Records’ rockabilly recordings and is essential in driving the song’s energetic feel.
3. Drums
The drumming in this track is straightforward yet powerful, utilizing a driving backbeat that keeps the momentum alive. The snare drum stands out with its crisp, punchy hits, while the hi-hat and cymbals add just enough texture without overshadowing the other instruments.
4. Piano
While not as dominant as the guitar or bass, the piano makes subtle yet effective contributions to the track. With light, rhythmic chords, it adds a layer of richness that complements the song’s upbeat nature. In many rockabilly recordings of the time, the piano was often used to reinforce the melody or provide additional rhythmic drive, and Go! Go! Go! is no exception.
Roy Orbison’s Vocal Performance
One of the defining characteristics of Go! Go! Go! is Roy Orbison’s spirited vocal delivery. Unlike the operatic, emotionally charged singing style he later became famous for, here we find a young Orbison exhibiting a more aggressive, rock-and-roll-inspired approach. His voice is energetic, with a playful and rebellious edge, embodying the carefree attitude that rockabilly music is known for.
The lyrics of Go! Go! Go! are simple yet effective, urging the listener to move, dance, and enjoy life. The repetitive chorus enhances the song’s catchy appeal, making it a track that easily sticks in the mind. This combination of compelling vocals and engaging lyrics helps solidify Go! Go! Go! as a prime example of early rockabilly at its best.
The Legacy of Go! Go! Go!
Although Go! Go! Go! was not one of Orbison’s biggest commercial hits, it remains a vital part of his musical journey. It showcases his roots in rockabilly and highlights the raw energy that defined the early days of rock and roll. For fans of classic rock and country music, the song serves as an essential listening experience that sheds light on Orbison’s early career before he transitioned into his signature dramatic ballads.
Today, the song enjoys recognition among rockabilly fans and collectors of early Sun Records recordings. It has been featured in multiple compilation albums that celebrate Orbison’s early work, ensuring that new generations of listeners can experience this electrifying piece of music.
Similar Songs for Fans of Go! Go! Go!
If you enjoy Go! Go! Go!, you might also appreciate the following rockabilly classics:
- Jerry Lee Lewis – Great Balls of Fire
- A piano-driven rockabilly anthem filled with high-energy vocals and thrilling instrumental work.
- Elvis Presley – Mystery Train
- Another Sun Records hit, Mystery Train is a perfect example of the raw and rhythmic sound that defined early rock and roll.
- Carl Perkins – Blue Suede Shoes
- A definitive rockabilly track with catchy lyrics and an infectious guitar riff.
- Johnny Cash – Get Rhythm
- While Cash is known for his country storytelling, Get Rhythm leans into the rockabilly style with its lively tempo and playful lyrics.
- Eddie Cochran – Summertime Blues
- A rockabilly anthem with a rebellious spirit and a driving guitar riff that remains iconic.
Conclusion
Go! Go! Go! by Roy Orbison is a must-listen for anyone interested in rockabilly music or the early days of rock and roll. Featuring an exhilarating blend of guitar, piano, upright bass, and drums, the song captures the essence of the 1950s music scene. While Orbison’s later works leaned toward orchestral arrangements and deeply emotional ballads, this track offers a glimpse into his youthful rockabilly days, filled with energy and charisma.
Whether you’re a dedicated fan of Orbison or a newcomer exploring rockabilly music, Go! Go! Go! is a song that deserves a place in your playlist. Its fast-paced rhythm, catchy lyrics, and enthusiastic performance make it a timeless classic worth revisiting. So, turn up the volume, tap your feet, and let the rockabilly spirit take over!