Before she became the Queen of Rockabilly, Wanda Jackson, now 64, was a country and western singer. But in 1955, Jackson toured with a young Elvis Presley, and the King was so impressed with her ferocious vocals, he encouraged her to take on rock ‘n’ roll.
Jackson, who also dated Presley, took his advice and, in 1956 became the first female singer to make a dent in the male-dominated rock scene. Her hits include “Hot Dog! That Made Him Mad,” “Fujiyama Mama” and “Let’s Have a Party.”
The singer, who plays Maxwell’s tomorrow, had an impact on the fashion front as well. As a country singer, Jackson shunned cowboy clothing in favor of sexier looks. Once, she wasn’t allowed on stage at the Grand Ole Opry until she covered her shoulders.
Jackson was also a glam rocker – emphasizing her curves with tight, fringed dresses.
In the early ’60s, she returned to country music. Then, in 1971, she looked to gospel after she and her husband became born-again Christians.
But look for her to play a combustible rockabilly set tomorrow night at Maxwell’s, where Jackson shares a bill with Rosie Flores at 9.
Tickets are $15. Maxwell’s, 1039 Washington St., Hoboken, N.J.; (201) 798-0406.