Introduction
Elvis Presley’s “Blue Moon of Kentucky” is much more than just a catchy song. It represents a pivotal moment in music history, bridging the gap between traditional bluegrass and the burgeoning rock and roll movement.
Originally written by Bill Monroe in 1946, “Blue Moon of Kentucky” was a slow, melancholic waltz typical of the bluegrass genre. However, when Elvis and his bandmates, Scotty Moore and Bill Black, recorded their version in 1954, they transformed it into an upbeat, energetic rockabilly tune. This bold reinterpretation injected new life into the song and introduced bluegrass to a wider audience.
While Elvis’s version became a global success, its impact resonated deeply within the bluegrass community. Monroe, initially apprehensive about the drastic change, eventually acknowledged its positive influence. He even incorporated elements of Elvis’s arrangement into his own performances, demonstrating how the two genres could coexist and learn from each other.
“Blue Moon of Kentucky” stands as a testament to the power of artistic innovation. It highlights the transformative potential of music and its ability to transcend genre boundaries. The song’s enduring popularity continues to connect generations, reminding us of the shared roots of rock and roll and bluegrass music.
Video
Lyrics
Blue moon, blue moon, blue moon,
keep shining bright.
Blue moon, keep on shining bright,
You’re gonna bring me back my baby tonight,
Blue moon, keep shining bright.I said blue moon of Kentucky
keep on shining,
Shine on the one that’s gone and left me blue.
I said blue moon of Kentucky
keep on shining,
Shine on the one that’s gone and left me blue.Well, it was on one moonlight night,
Stars shining bright,
Wish blown high
Love said good-bye.Blue moon of Kentucky
Keep on shining.
Shine on the one that’s gone and left me blue.Well, I said blue moon of Kentucky
Just keep on shining.
Shine on the one that’s gone and left me blue.
I said blue moon of Kentucky
keep on shining.
Shine on the one that’s gone and left me blue.Well, it was on one moonlight night,
Stars shining bright,
Wish blown high
Love said good-bye.Blue moon of Kentucky
Keep on shining.
Shine on the one that’s gone and left me blue.