The very first rock and roll song? Earth Angel? Rock Around the Clock? Ain’t Nuthin But a Hound Dog? That’s Alright Mama?
Nope. The honor goes to Rocket 88 released around this time of year in 1951 (click here.)
Although officially credited to singer Jackie Brenston, the song was actually a product of then 19 year old Ike Turner and his Kings of Rhythm. Yes, that Ike Turner B.T. (before Tina.) Brenston was the Kings’ lead vocalist and saxophone player. To listen to Rockett 88 click here.
And since it’s a Twofer Tuesday kinda day, here is another potential nominee for first rock n roll song from 1948 by Wynonie Harris:
And since I am on a “roll” here, let’s make it Three for Tuesday and include Roy Brown’s 1947 version of Good Rockin’ Tonight. 
