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on the guitar riff in "Johnny B. Goode"...
Chuck Berry's Influence
Beatles
Chuck Berry
Beachboys
a Chuck Berry Sampler
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Rock & Roll Pioneer
Chuck Berry was one of the first rock and roll artists. He was born in St. Louis, spent a lot of time in Chicago where he was influenced by blues greats like Muddy Waters. Originally a rhythm and blues guitarist, Berry first performed with Sir John's Trio in 1952. It was with this band that he blended his blues and country, creating rock and roll.
In 1955, with the advice of Muddy Waters, Chuck recorded 2 songs with Chess records. One of them, "Maybelline" went to number 1 on the R&B charts and number 5 on the pop charts. Between 1956 and 1958 Berry recorded hits like "Roll Over Beethoven," "Rock and Roll Music," "Sweet Little Sixteen," and the classic "Johnny B. Goode."
One of the first black rock and roll artists, Chuck Berry helped better relations between blacks and whites. As rock and roll gained popularity with white kids they started coming to Chuck Berry's shows. Sometimes they'd have all white dance nights or put a rope up to segregate the two races. But after a while, they'd all be dancing together.
Berry influenced many artists after the 50's. People like the Beatles loved him. The Beach Boys copied his guitar riffs for their songs.
Chuck Berry was also an excellent performer. Nicknamed "Crazy Legs," he drove the audience wild by doing the duckwalk and "The Scoot" while performing.
Chuck Berry article in the Rock Hall of Fame
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