Rock ’til You Drop is an up-tempo rock number with A really catchy tune. It kicks off with an exciting opening that already gives a good impression of the driving, rhythmic rock character of the work. The opening extends over four bars, and is syncopated with a good deal of dynamic effects, beginning in the lower brass and drums. This motif is then ever more embellished through the higher brass instruments and various woodwinds, climbing eventually to a rousing climax.
Now we hear the first theme, played by saxophones and horns, accompanied by trumpets, bass and drums, and with counter-melodies and rhythmic patterns in woodwind and trumpets respectively—all in all a very tuneful and colourful whole in a driving rhythm and tempo. Next we hear a second theme in cut common time. This second section is played by just the woodwinds with a light drum accompaniment. The opening returns, albeit with a shorter structure and harmonised differently, and this signals a repeat of the first theme in clarinets horns and euphoniums with further counter-melodies and rhythm patterns. We come full circle as the work is brought to an explosive close with a return to the opening motif.