Rock ‘n’ Roll Chronicles: Unveiling the Story Behind Chuck Berry’s ‘Too Much Monkey Business’

Introduction:

In the rich tapestry of rock and roll history, few threads are as vibrant and enduring as Chuck Berry’s “Too Much Monkey Business.” Released in 1956 as a single and later included in his iconic album “After School Session,” this song is a rhythmic journey through the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Let’s delve into the lyrics and explore why “Too Much Monkey Business” remains a timeless commentary on the human experience.

Verse 1:

A Glimpse into Frustration The opening lines of the song set the stage for the protagonist’s exasperation with the demands of modern life. Berry paints a vivid picture of a world filled with constant commotion—too many obligations, too little time. The metaphorical “monkey business” becomes a symbol for the chaotic and senseless activities that surround us, capturing the essence of the human struggle to keep up with the pace of a rapidly changing society.

Chorus:

The Catchy Refrain The catchy chorus, featuring Berry’s signature guitar riffs, amplifies the frustration expressed in the verses. The repetition of the phrase “Too much monkey business” becomes a rallying cry, a musical mantra that resonates with listeners across generations. It’s a sentiment that transcends time, as people from the 1950s to the present day can relate to the feeling of being overwhelmed by the demands of daily life.

Verse 2:

Social Commentary with a Beat Berry’s genius lies not only in his musical prowess but also in his ability to infuse social commentary into a toe-tapping, danceable tune. The second verse of “Too Much Monkey Business” addresses the conformity and monotony of the 1950s, where societal expectations often stifled individuality. The lyrics touch on issues such as mindless consumerism, workplace monotony, and the struggle to maintain one’s identity in the face of societal pressures.

Guitar Solo:

A Sonic Escape The instrumental break in the middle of the song showcases Berry’s groundbreaking guitar skills. The energetic and improvisational solo serves as a sonic escape from the “monkey business” described in the lyrics. It’s a musical interlude that invites the listener to momentarily break free from the constraints of everyday life and revel in the joy of pure rock and roll.

Conclusion:

A Timeless Anthem “Too Much Monkey Business” endures as more than just a classic rock and roll song; it’s a timeless anthem for anyone who has felt the weight of life’s burdens. Chuck Berry’s ability to blend insightful social commentary with infectious rhythms cements this track as a masterpiece that continues to captivate and resonate with audiences worldwide. So, the next time you find yourself caught in the whirlwind of daily challenges, put on Chuck Berry’s “Too Much Monkey Business” and let the music be your companion in navigating the chaos of life.

Video

Lyrics

Runnin’ to-and-fro, hard workin’ at the mill
Never fail in the mail, yeah, come a rotten bill
Too much monkey business, too much monkey business
Too much monkey business for me to be involved in

Salesman talkin’ to me, tryin’ to run me up a creek
Says you can buy it, go on try it, you can pay me next week, ahh
Too much monkey business, too much monkey business
Too much monkey business for me to be involved in

Blonde haired good lookin’, tryin’ to get me hooked
Want me to marry, get a home, settle down, write a book
Too much monkey business, too much monkey business
Too much monkey business for me to be involved in

Same thing every day, gettin’ up, goin’ to school
No need for me to complain, my objection’s overruled, ahh
Too much monkey business, too much monkey business
Too much monkey business for me to be involved in

Pay phone, something wrong, dime gone, will mail
Order suit, hoppered up for telling me a tale, ahh
Too much monkey business, too much monkey business
Too much monkey business for me to be involved in

Been to Yokohama, been fightin’ in the war
Army bunk, army chow, army clothes, army car, aah
Too much monkey business, too much monkey business
Too much monkey business for me to be involved in

Workin’ in the fillin’ station, too many tasks
Wipe the windows, check the tires, check the oil, dollar gas
Too much monkey business, too much monkey business
Don’t want your botheration, get away, leave me

Too much monkey business for me