While many record companies were producing music that was written by other people, Chuck Berry said no, and did his own thing. Elvis had great stage presence, and could sing, but those where not his songs. Hound Dog was created by Big Mama Thornton, Love Me Tender was created by Ken Darby who changed the lyrics to a song called Aura Lee, which was written before the Civil War, etc, etc. While Presley was a great performer, I wouldn't call him an artist because he didn't create his music.
Chuck Berry, on the other had did write much of his own music, although he also did a few songs which were scripted for him by the music companies, like Elvis. However, most of his material was original, which is why I prefer him to Elvis, and believe that he was a better all around artist because of it. In addition, many musicians were copying Berry's stage moves. Back in 1969, I saw Brownsville Station play in Traverse City Michigan, and saw their bass player attempt Berry's hop on one foot while playing. It was so bad I pissed off their manager because I could not stop laughing. I laughed for days afterwards too. But everybody wanted to be like Chuck Berry on the stage. That man was electricity in motion. Same could be said for Jerry Lee Lewis, who I also liked. Lewis and Berry hated each other with a passion, but I loved them both.
Rest in piece, Mr. Berry, and please, wherever you are jamming up there, don't let God catch you playing with your dingaling.
eace
