Rockabilly
The rebirth of a timeless sound
What is Rockabilly?
Rockabilly is one of the earliest styles of rock and roll music. It dates back to the early 1950s in the United States, especially the South. As a genre it blends the sound of Western musical styles such as country with that of rhythm and blues, leading to what is considered "classic" rock and roll.
The term "rockabilly" itself is a portmanteau of "rock" (from "rock 'n' roll") and "hillbilly", the latter a reference to the country music (often called "hillbilly music" in the 1940s and 1950s) that contributed strongly to the style.
🎸 Featured Event
Rockabilly Revival
An Event by Michael McGill
Event Details
Venue: Gartcosh Social Club, Glasgow
Organizer: Michael McGill
Genre: Rockabilly Revival
Get tickets and full event information
Join Michael McGill for an authentic rockabilly revival experience featuring live music, vintage vibes, and the spirit of the 1950s brought to life in Glasgow.
Michael McGill - Featured artist bringing rockabilly culture to Scotland
The Revival Movement
The rockabilly revival began in the late 1970s and has continued in waves ever since. What started as a nostalgic movement has evolved into a vibrant subculture with its own fashion, dance styles, and dedicated community of musicians and fans.
Today's rockabilly scene is truly international, with active communities and festivals across Europe, North America, Australia, and beyond. Modern rockabilly artists honor the classic sound while bringing their own contemporary edge to the genre.
Key Characteristics
Musical Elements
- • Slap bass (stand-up bass played percussively)
- • Simple drum patterns (often just snare and bass)
- • Clean, twangy guitar with minimal distortion
- • Vocal hiccups and echo effects
- • Country-influenced chord progressions
Cultural Style
- • 1950s fashion and hairstyles
- • Vintage cars and motorcycles
- • Swing and jive dancing
- • Tattoo culture and pin-up art
- • Hot rod and custom car culture
Modern Revival Artists
The Stray Cats
Led the 1980s rockabilly revival with hits like "Rock This Town" and "Stray Cat Strut"
Brian Setzer
Former Stray Cats leader who continued the revival with his orchestra and solo work
Reverend Horton Heat
Texas-based psychobilly band that has kept the sound alive since the 1980s
Join the Revival
Whether you're a musician, dancer, or just a fan of the sound, there's a place for you in the rockabilly community.