On December 4, 1956, rock’n’roll history was made when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins came together for the first and only time in studio. The four men sang gospel songs and had an impromptu jam session that lasted the whole evening. The next day, a news article was written about the experience dubbing it, the MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET.
This show has some high-profile people to recreate, and while that may be intimidating to look at on paper, this cast represented each person perfectly. Billy Rude busted in like a great ball of fire capturing Jerry Lee Lewis’ spit-fire personality. He played the piano standing up, backwards, and with his feet, demonstrating Lewis’ energetic and chaotic performances. Playing the King of Rock himself, Noah Barnes was soft and sweet, but still had the renowned southern charm of Elvis. By the end of the show, Noah carries that classic charm directly into the audience (you might get his scarf if you are lucky!) From King of Rock to King of Rockabilly, Sam Sherwood brings Carl Perkins to life onstage with his down-to-earth country boy style. And of course, I cannot be a good Sacramentan and not be in awe of Blake Burgess’ Johnny Cash. From performing using his “gun guitar” to having a stoic demeanor, I felt like I was watching him live at Folsom Prison.
While I was excited to see this show, I was surprised that it hit my heart in a special place. I grew up listening to rock’n’roll, but I had never heard of Sam Phillips or Sun Records. Until I saw this show, I never realized the impact he had on the music industry. It is safe to say that without him, there would be no Elvis, Johnny, Jerry, or Carl. Sam had faith in rock music (which was seen as “the devil’s music” at the time), but more importantly, he had faith in these men when no one else did. This show captures not only a special moment in time, but also the devotion that goes into something we love.
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET surprised me in all the best ways possible. It delivers the classic hits you know and love along with a lot of heart. So grab your “Blue Suede Shoes” and head over to the UC Davis Health Pavilion, now through June 5. Learn more here.
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