Do The Jerk (Get Down With It) ~ Little Richard

Introduction

Little Richard, an icon of rock ‘n’ roll, is renowned for his electrifying performances and groundbreaking music. Among his many influential tracks, “Do The Jerk (Get Down With It)” stands out as a quintessential example of his dynamic style. Released in 1964, this song encapsulates the energy and excitement that defined Little Richard’s career. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of “Do The Jerk (Get Down With It),” its musical elements, and the lasting impact it has had on the world of rock ‘n’ roll.

Unpacking “Do The Jerk (Get Down With It)”

“Do The Jerk (Get Down With It)” is a vibrant blend of rock ‘n’ roll, rhythm and blues, and early soul. This track showcases Little Richard’s signature sound—his powerful voice, energetic piano riffs, and infectious rhythms. Released as a single in 1964, it quickly became a favorite among fans and a staple on dance floors across the globe.

Musical Composition and Style

The song’s composition is a masterclass in rock ‘n’ roll exuberance. It opens with a lively piano riff that sets the stage for Little Richard’s signature vocal style. His voice, known for its raw power and exuberance, delivers the song’s catchy lyrics with unmatched energy. The upbeat tempo and driving beat invite listeners to dance and engage with the music, making it a quintessential dance track of its time.

One of the most distinctive elements of “Do The Jerk (Get Down With It)” is its incorporation of dance culture into the song’s structure. The title itself references the popular dance craze of the 1960s, the Jerk, which adds a layer of cultural relevance to the track. Little Richard’s ability to blend musical innovation with contemporary dance trends is a testament to his versatility and understanding of popular culture.

Impact and Legacy

“Do The Jerk (Get Down With It)” is more than just a dance track; it’s a reflection of Little Richard’s influence on the evolution of rock ‘n’ roll. The song captures the essence of a transformative era in music, characterized by energetic performances and groundbreaking sounds. Its release during the early 1960s, a time of significant cultural and musical change, highlights Little Richard’s role as a pioneer in shaping the future of rock music.

The track’s influence extends beyond its initial release. Its infectious rhythm and danceable beat have inspired countless artists and musicians. The song’s impact on dance culture, in particular, underscores Little Richard’s ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. Whether it’s through its music or its danceable rhythm, “Do The Jerk (Get Down With It)” remains a vibrant part of rock ‘n’ roll history.

Conclusion

Little Richard’s “Do The Jerk (Get Down With It)” is a timeless classic that exemplifies the energy and creativity of rock ‘n’ roll. With its lively composition, engaging dance references, and Little Richard’s electrifying performance, the song continues to captivate audiences and inspire musicians. As we revisit this iconic track, we celebrate the legacy of Little Richard and his significant contributions to the world of music.

Lyrics

 

Well alright everybody
Let your hair down
If you got on a wig like some people think I got on
And this is my own beautiful hair
What they do with it fellas?
Take it off

I said get down with it
Do the jazz
Come on, baby
Going to watch everybody wag
I said, come on, baby
I wanna see everybody do the jazz

I said, come on baby
It’s been a long long time, woo!
Baby, wanna to watch everybody move around
I said, come on baby
Wanna see everybody make some sound

Oh it’s alright
Singing, “It’s alright”
Woo! Yeah, yeah yeah, my my my my
Singing, “It’s alright”
My my my, yeah

Everybody raise both your hands
Everybody, everywhere
I said, clap your hands
Everybody clap your hands
Oh yeah, my my my my
Woo! Yeah, my my my my

Everybody raise your right hand
Everybody, everywhere
I said, snap your finger
Come on little girl snap your finger, come on little boy
Woo! Yeah, yeah, yeah
My my my my
Oh yeah, my my my my

Everybody get their grooving on, moving
Don’t be no fool, let’s go
Everybody, let’s go, come on, get in line
I said, stomp your feet
Now listen to my beat
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah yeah
My my my my
Woo! Yeah, my my my my

Oh one more time
I’m saying one more time
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
My my my my, woo!
One more time
My my my my
Oh, it’s alright yeah
Oh Lord singing, it’s alright
Hey hey, yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah
My my my my, Woo! yeah
My my my my, let’s go
Oh, It’a alright