Carl Perkins

This essential compilation captures rockabilly pioneer Carl Perkins at his 1950s peak, featuring groundbreaking hits that shaped rock ‘n’ roll. Anchored by "Blue Suede Shoes" (1956)—his fiery anthem of rebellion and the era’s first million-selling country-rock crossover—the album includes raw Sun Records classics like "Matchbox" and "Honey Don’t." Perkins’ twangy vocals, scorching guitar licks ("Boppin’ the Blues"), and driving rhythms influenced generations, from The Beatles (who covered multiple tracks) to modern roots artists. Though eclipsed by Elvis’s versions of his songs, Perkins’ originals brim with unfiltered energy and wit, embodying rock’s birth at the intersection of blues, country, and R&B. A foundational document of American music, Original Golden Hits immortalizes the “King of Rockabilly” in his prime.