About The Song
Released in 1957, “Rockin’ Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu” by Huey “Piano” Smith and His Clowns is a lively and unique track that blends rhythm and blues, rock and roll, and a bit of boogie woogie to create a fun, danceable anthem. Written by Huey Smith and Johnny Vincent, the song quickly became a hit, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard R&B charts. With its infectious rhythm, energetic piano, and playful lyrics, the song became a staple of the R&B scene in the late 1950s and continues to be a beloved classic today.
The lyrics of “Rockin’ Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu” are humorous and energetic, describing a person who has “caught” a case of the “boogie woogie flu” and is experiencing a rockin’ fever that can only be cured by dancing. The song’s quirky narrative is full of wordplay, with references to various ailments like “rockin’ pneumonia” and the “boogie woogie flu” representing the uncontrollable urge to dance. The repeated line “I got the rockin’ pneumonia and the boogie woogie flu” emphasizes the infectious nature of the dance craze and the joy that comes from moving to the rhythm.
Musically, “Rockin’ Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu” is driven by Huey Smith’s energetic piano playing, which serves as the centerpiece of the track. The lively piano riffs, combined with a steady rhythm section and horns, create a dynamic and upbeat sound that immediately gets the listener moving. Smith’s playful vocals are full of personality, adding to the song’s lighthearted and fun nature. The infectious rhythm and toe-tapping groove make the song a perfect dance tune, and its upbeat feel captures the exuberance of the 1950s R&B scene.
When “Rockin’ Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu” was first released, it quickly became a hit, gaining popularity in both R&B and mainstream charts. The song’s playful lyrics, catchy rhythm, and infectious piano made it a favorite on jukeboxes and dance floors across the United States. Its success helped Huey “Piano” Smith become one of the leading figures in the New Orleans R&B scene and further cemented his reputation as a talented pianist and performer.
Today, “Rockin’ Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu” remains a classic of R&B and rock and roll, regularly featured in collections of 1950s hits. Its energetic piano, catchy melody, and humorous lyrics ensure its lasting appeal, making it a favorite for fans of both R&B and early rock and roll. The song is also a testament to Huey “Piano” Smith’s influence on the evolution of R&B and his role in shaping the sound of New Orleans music. “Rockin’ Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu” continues to capture the carefree, playful spirit of its era, standing as one of the most fun and infectious tracks in the history of rhythm and blues.