#1 for weeks of May 18, and 25th, 1959.
If you're wondering, yes, this is the first half of the song better known today as, "Kansas City/Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey". The second part of that medley is a Little Richard song from 1956, and it was this year, (1959), that Richard returned with the combined version of the two songs. This review, of course, will only cover, "Kansas City".
The song was one of the many compositions by the renowned songwriting team of lyricist Jerry Lieber, and music composer Mike Stoller, who will certainly crop up in more spots on this list as we go along. It's also a nice medium tempo Rock And Roll tune in the style of a 12-bar blues.
This version has its own unique sound to it, unlike Little Richard's version, which is best known today by The Beatles' 1964 cover of it. Wilbert almost swings his vocals during the final 3rd of each of the 12-bar verses, and it creates an almost ska-like feel. Despite the song being more of a restrained rocker, there is still a nice guitar solo section. However, it is the piano pounding out triplets throughout the tune which is the musical highlight.
With that being said, I do still prefer the Little Richard arrangement of this song, if only due to the fact that it takes this medium rocker and adds some extra spice and pizzazz to it. Wilbert's version, however, sounds more like it is rooted in the blues, and that genre is always welcome on this list.
Final Verdict - While I feel that Little Richard's, and The Beatles' versions, are superior because they add even more personality to the song, Wilbert Harrison's version should not be missed as well, as it a fine blues-inspired rocker with unique vocals and a stellar piano track. Check out all the versions of it and see which one you like best!
Coming Up Next - "The Battle Of New Orleans" by Johnny Horton.
Until Next Time - Dr. Rock -
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