Be-Bop-A-Lula

Gene Vincent & His Blue Caps, 1956, from single. Solo by Cliff Gallup.

Gallup's short breaks use slapback echo and fluid bends that rockabilly players still study note for note.

Be-Bop-A-Lula is a rockabilly landmark, and Cliff Gallup's short breaks remain some of the most studied in the genre. Playing a Gretsch Duo Jet, he uses slapback echo and fluid bends, creating a sound that is both relaxed and charged. His phrases are concise and melodic, perfectly suited to the song's sultry groove. Rockabilly players still learn his solos note for note. Listen for the smooth, flowing bends that seem to slide effortlessly between notes, and for the way the echo gives each phrase a sense of depth and movement, adding a spark of excitement to Gene Vincent's breathy, hiccuping vocal.

Be-Bop-A-Lula by Gene Vincent & His Blue Caps is featured in our Rock & Roll (#17), Rockabilly (#3) lists. The solo is played by Cliff Gallup and the song was released in 1956.

In our lists

• Beyond the Canon — #14
• The 25 Greatest Rock and Roll Guitar Solos — #17
• The 25 Greatest Rockabilly Guitar Solos — #3
• The Best Gene Vincent & His Blue Caps Guitar Solos — #2

Sources