Original Golden Hits Volume II cover

Original Golden Hits Volume II

Jerry Lee Lewis · 1969

26 min · 11 tracks · blues

A vibrant collection of rockabilly and country-infused tracks brimming with Jerry Lee Lewis' signature exuberance and piano prowess.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Fools Like Me Start here — This track highlights Lewis's dynamic vocal delivery and emotional depth, capturing the essence of vulnerability that contrasts with his usual bravado.
  • →
    Mean Woman Blues — With its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics, this song epitomizes Lewis's rockabilly roots while demonstrating his masterful piano work.
  • →
    High School Confidential — This track stands out for its energetic tempo and youthful themes, showcasing Lewis's ability to connect with a younger audience during the late 60s.
  • →
    Save the Last Dance for Me — This poignant cover showcases Lewis's versatility, blending heartfelt emotion with a classic pop ballad sensibility that resonates across generations.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases vibrant performances but lacks some depth in songwriting consistency.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of upbeat tempos across the majority of its tracks, with only a couple of slower ballads interspersed.
  • Jerry Lee Lewis's piano playing is prominent throughout, often driving the rhythm and melody in a lively manner.
  • Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the energetic feel and engaging the listener.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short bursts of lively energy
  • sing-along moments with friends
  • playful nostalgia for simpler times
  • for spontaneous gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, contemplative albums
  • seek deep narrative explorations

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Solidified Jerry Lee Lewis's legacy during a transitional phase in rock and roll.
Themes
rockabilly roots· heartfelt ballads
Career context
By the time 'Original Golden Hits Volume II' was released in 1969, Jerry Lee Lewis was transitioning from his early rockabilly fame into a more diverse musical repertoire. This album followed his earlier compilation, showcasing his enduring appeal while also reflecting changes in the music landscape as he sought to maintain relevance amidst shifting popular tastes.
Stylistic neighbors
Little Richard· Chuck Berry· Fats Domino

Tracklist

  • 1 Fools Like Me Start here 2:48
  • 2 Break-Up 2:35
  • 3 Money 2:12
  • 4 I'll Make It All Up to You 3:00
  • 5 Mean Woman Blues 2:22
  • 6 What'd I Say 2:23
  • 7 High School Confidential 2:27
  • 8 How's My Ex Treating You 2:35
  • 9 I'll Sail My Ship Alone 2:07
  • 10 I Could Never Be Ashamed of You 2:23
  • 11 Save the Last Dance for Me 1:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata