Motley Fool Money How Luck Made “Rock Around The Clock” a #1 Hit
Apr 21, 2020
The unexpected success of 'Rock Around The Clock' is a tale of chance and timing. Initially a flop, the song's fate changed thanks to a fifth grader who shared it. This serendipitous moment turned a forgotten track into a rock 'n' roll classic. The conversation highlights how luck plays a crucial role in cultural phenomena. Derek Thompson draws insights from his book to explore these themes.
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Rock Around the Clock's Unexpected Success
- "Rock Around the Clock" initially flopped when Bill Haley released it in 1954.
- It gained popularity only after being featured in the 1955 film "Blackboard Jungle," becoming a number one hit.
The Unpredictability of Hits
- Luck and timing play significant roles in success, as demonstrated by the story of "Rock Around the Clock."
- Predicting hits is difficult due to unpredictable factors like a fifth-grader's music preference.
