End of the Road (Jerry Lee Lewis song)
"End of the Road" is a song written by Jerry Lee Lewis and Linda Gail Lewis. It was originally released as a single by Jerry Lee Lewis in 1956 on Sun Records (Sun 257). The song is a rock and roll ballad, slower in tempo than many of Lewis's better-known high-energy tracks like "Great Balls of Fire" and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On."
The lyrics of "End of the Road" express themes of heartbreak and regret, depicting a man lamenting the demise of a relationship. He sings of reaching the "end of the road" with his lover and acknowledges his own role in the separation. Musically, the song features Lewis's characteristic piano playing, although in a more subdued style than his more flamboyant performances. The recording also includes backing vocals and instrumentation typical of Sun Records productions of the era.
Although "End of the Road" was not as commercially successful as some of Lewis's other early hits, it has remained a notable part of his discography. It exemplifies the breadth of his musical talent and demonstrates his ability to perform ballads as well as more uptempo rock and roll numbers. The song has been covered by other artists over the years, further solidifying its place in the history of rock and roll music. Its lasting appeal is likely attributable to its relatable theme of lost love and the raw emotion conveyed in Lewis's performance.