1960 Top Ten Songs: Let’s Have a Party (#6)

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One of the “seasons” we have here in Louisville is listed on a meteorologist’s page (as a joke) as “whatever Derby wants to do.” While Balloon Glow #1 went off last night, the rush hour balloon race was canceled this morning because of rain. Derby time is all about the party, and speaking of that, let’s go back to 1960 for a party of a song! #6: Let’s Have a Party - Wanda Jackson Elvis two days in a row!! Elvis recorded this song in 1957, but I’m gonna tell you something: his version didn’t smoke like this one! Back then, they called Wanda Jackson “the female Elvis.” One listen to this and you can see why. When it came to rockabilly, that lady smoked. And I’ll tell you something: I saw her when she was 77 years old and she STILL belted this out like there was no tomorrow. She’s 87 now, and retired (she quit performing at the tender age of 83, in 2021). She had a good career as a country singer (one of her songs, “The Box It Came In,” is on my 100 favorites list) and as a gospel singer. Most significantly, her dynamic energy in early rock and roll will stand the test of time. Let’s Have a Party Written by Jessie Mae Robinson Recorded by Wanda Jackson Released as a single, 1960 I never kissed a bear: