Valerie June Gives New Spin to Chuck Berry’s ‘Maybellene’ for His 100th Birthday
In anticipation of Chuck Berry’s upcoming 100th birthday in 2026, acclaimed American singer-songwriter Valerie June has released a reimagined version of Berry’s iconic 1955 hit “Maybellene” to commemorate the song’s 70th anniversary.
Produced by Lawrence Rothman, this fresh recording serves as a tribute to the man widely regarded as the founding figure of rock and roll, whose impact continues to reverberate across the years. June sees this project as a jubilant celebration of one of music’s most enduring legacies, stating, “We are sending Chuck Berry warm wishes on his birthday with our collaborative take on ‘Maybellene’.” She emphasizes that Berry’s music is not confined to rock and roll but permeates various genres like soul, blues, and country. Their rendition even incorporates a gospel choir, highlighting the universal language of music that unites people across time and space.
June’s release coincides with Chuck Berry’s Birthday Bash, a special two-night event taking place at Powell Hall in St. Louis on Friday, October 17th, and Saturday, October 18th, in collaboration with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. The celebration will feature Valerie June, Lawrence Rothman, and a lineup of musicians, including Abraham Alexander, Maggie Rose, Patton Magee, Zach Person, Howlin’ Hurd, Charles Berry Jr., Charles Berry III, Jahi Eskridge, and various special guests from bands like The Rolling Stones, Living Colour, and The Pretenders.
The festivities are part of a larger tribute initiative titled “Chuck Berry 100: A Tribute Reimagined,” a diverse album featuring reinterpretations of Berry’s most beloved songs by artists across different genres, from Country to Indie Rock and Americana, with additional contributors yet to be revealed. The record is co-produced by Lawrence Rothman and Yves Rothman, both St. Louis natives deeply influenced by Berry’s groundbreaking contribution to music.
Chuck Berry’s original “Maybellene,” released in 1955, is hailed as one of the seminal rock and roll records, showcasing Berry’s distinctive storytelling style and iconic guitar riff that revolutionized popular music. Tracks like “Roll Over Beethoven,” “Johnny B. Goode,” and “Sweet Little Sixteen” served as blueprints for countless rock musicians, shaping the sound of artists ranging from The Beatles and The Rolling Stones to Bruce Springsteen and AC/DC.
Valerie June, signed with Fantasy Records under the Concord Music Group, has established herself as a unique voice in modern Americana music. Hailing from Jackson, Tennessee, June’s musical upbringing immersed her in gospel, R&B, and blues, shaping her distinctive sound that blends Appalachian folk, country soul, and symphonic pop. Her collaboration with Dan Auerbach on the album “Pushin’ Against A Stone” in 2013 brought her widespread acclaim and recognition on both sides of the Atlantic.
Through her rendition of “Maybellene,” June breathes new life into a classic rock track by blending gospel, roots, and Americana influences. As the world prepares to honor Chuck Berry’s hundredth birthday, her tribute not only celebrates the birth of rock and roll but also underscores the enduring influence of Berry’s creative spirit on artists generations later.