Elton John released “Crocodile Rock” in November of 1972 and it went straight to the top. It became the first song released on the MCA label and it was MCA’s first #1 song as well as Elton John’s first #1.

There is a very distinct “Happy Days” type feel to this song which is obviously a tribute to the 1950s. There is no mistake that the crocodile in crocodile rock references Bill Haley’s alligator in his song “See you Later Alligator.” Crocodile Rock lyrics also mention references to Haley’s “Rock Around The Clock.”

1955 Chevrolet Nomad. Photos from www.wikipedia.org

The song takes a nostalgic look at early rock and roll and the carefree independence of that time where a guy and his girlfriend “Suzie” frequent a burger joint where a local dance called the crocodile rock was the hit.

The crocodile rock dance, as told by the singer, was so catchy that you couldn’t sit still. The music was so shocking that you had to dance.

As with many things from youth, time marches on and new fads replace old ones. Girlfriends can even progress and move on – perhaps even with a foreign guy. As these times vanish into memories with long nights crying by the record machine dreaming of a Chevy and blue jeans.

1956 Chevrolet Bel Air 4 door sedan.

Crocodile Rock reminds us of the Tri-Five Chevys and that carefree feeling. A 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air four door or even a 1955 gold Chevy Nomad wagon.

Tell us which “old gold Chevrolet” you think Elton John was singing about.