St. LOUIS – Charles Edward Anderson Berry Sr., better known as the legendary musician Chuck Berry, hailed from St. Louis. February marks Black History Month, and a prominent figure in St. Louis’s black history is none other than the singer and songwriter. He is commemorated in St. Louis by the Chuck Berry Statue in the Delmar Loop, situated near Blueberry Hill, where Berry frequently performed.

Blueberry Hill houses a collection of Chuck Berry artifacts, among which is the iconic Gibson-350T guitar. Berry used this guitar to pen hits like “Rock & Roll Music,” “Sweet Little Sixteen,” and “Johnny B. Goode.”

Widely hailed as the “Father of Rock and Roll,” Berry learned how to play the guitar from his friend Ira Harris. Harris taught Berry techniques that would shape his own sound. His breakthrough came in 1955 when he signed with Chess Records.

Berry was the first person to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. After a long and successful career that ended in 2014 with over 200 shows at Blueberry Hill, he retired to St. Louis.

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Among Chuck Berry’s enduring hits are:

• “Johnny B. Goode” (1958): An iconic track celebrated for its memorable guitar riff and lyrics.

• “Maybellene” (1955): Berry’s breakthrough hit, blending country and rhythm and blues to establish his signature sound.

• “Roll Over Beethoven” (1956): An energetic tribute to the power of rock and roll music.

• “Sweet Little Sixteen” (1958): A chart-topping anthem capturing the essence of teenage culture.

• “Rock and Roll Music” (1957): A song covered by numerous artists and a staple of Berry’s live performances.

• “School Days” (1957): Reflecting on the joys and challenges of adolescence.

• “Nadine (Is It You?)” (1964): Showcasing Berry’s storytelling prowess.

• “You Never Can Tell” (1964): Immortalized in the film “Pulp Fiction.”

• “Brown Eyed Handsome Man” (1956): Celebrating diversity and resilience.

• “Carol” (1958): Notable for its driving beat and infectious energy.

In his later years, Berry published “Chuck Berry: The Autobiography” in 1987 and saw the release of the documentary film “Hail! Hail! Rock ‘n’ Roll.” This film featured footage from his 60th birthday concert and guest appearances by Keith Richards and Bruce Springsteen.

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Berry’s innovative guitar playing and charismatic stage presence defined the genre of rock and roll. His influence, showcased in hits like “Johnny B. Goode” and “Maybellene,” remains profound and enduring. His distinctive blend of rhythm and blues, country, and storytelling lyrics continues to inspire generations of musicians worldwide.

Chuck Berry passed away at his home on March 18, 2017, at the age of 90. Before his death, he released his first album in 35 years titled “Chuck,” recorded in St. Louis-area studios and featuring mostly original work. His final studio album, “Rock It,” was released in 1979. “Chuck” was released posthumously.

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