Introduction
Few songs capture the spirit of early rock ‘n’ roll like “Let’s Twist Again” by Chubby Checker. Released in 1961, this high-energy follow-up to his smash hit “The Twist” became a global sensation, helping to cement the Twist as a full-blown dance movement. With its upbeat rhythm, infectious lyrics, and Checker’s charismatic delivery, “Let’s Twist Again” remains a beloved classic that still gets people moving.
The Story Behind the Song
After the unexpected success of “The Twist” in 1960, Chubby Checker and his label, Parkway Records, knew they had lightning in a bottle. Written by Kal Mann and Dave Appell, “Let’s Twist Again” was created to keep the momentum going—and it did just that.
Rather than simply repeating the original, the song cleverly referenced its predecessor while adding fresh energy and catchier hooks. Its call-and-response chorus and rollicking beat made it an instant hit on dance floors everywhere.
🎵 “Let’s twist again, like we did last summer / Yeah, let’s twist again, like we did last year!”
Chart Success and Awards
Released in June 1961, “Let’s Twist Again” became a top-10 hit in the U.S., peaking at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100. It fared even better internationally, especially in Europe, where it reached #2 in the UK Singles Chart.
In 1962, the song won Chubby Checker a Grammy Award for Best Rock & Roll Recording, making him one of the few artists of the early 1960s to receive such a distinction for a dance track.
The Twist Phenomenon
The Twist wasn’t just a dance—it was a cultural shift. It was one of the first popular dance crazes that didn’t require a partner, making it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. Chubby Checker became the face of that movement, and “Let’s Twist Again” was its official anthem.
Television appearances on shows like American Bandstand and The Ed Sullivan Show brought the song—and the dance—into millions of American living rooms, helping to spark a global phenomenon.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
“Let’s Twist Again” helped to immortalize the Twist as more than a passing fad. It became a staple of school dances, sock hops, weddings, and retro-themed parties for decades to come. The song has been featured in films, commercials, and even in NASA wake-up calls for astronauts—a true testament to its cross-generational appeal.
Chubby Checker himself remains a household name, largely due to the enduring popularity of this track and the joyful nostalgia it inspires.
Fun Facts
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Chubby Checker re-recorded “The Twist” in 1962, and it hit #1 again, making him the only artist to reach #1 twice with the same song.
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“Let’s Twist Again” is often used in media to evoke a sense of 1960s fun and innocence.
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The song helped popularize the idea of “sequel singles” in pop music.
Why It Still Works
In an age of hyper-produced digital music, “Let’s Twist Again” stands out for its simplicity and raw energy. Its joyful message and irresistible beat continue to bring generations together on the dancefloor. Whether it’s at a wedding, a retro party, or just your living room, once that familiar saxophone intro hits—you have to move.
Conclusion
“Let’s Twist Again” by Chubby Checker is more than just a catchy tune—it’s a vibrant piece of music history. With its upbeat tempo, fun-loving lyrics, and cultural significance, it’s a true dancefloor classic that continues to spread joy over 60 years after its release.
Lyrics: Let’s Twist Again
Come on everybody!
Clap your hands!
All you looking good!I’m gonna sing my song
It won’t take long!
We’re gonna do the twist
And it goes like this:Come on let’s twist again,
Like we did last summer!
Yeaaah, let’s twist again,
Like we did last year!Do you remember when,
Things were really hummin’,
Yeaaaah, let’s twist again,
Twistin’ time is here!Heeee, and round and round and up and down we go again!
Oh, baby, make me know you love me sooooo,
And then:Twist again,
Like we did last summer,
Come on, let’s twist again,
Like we did last year!TWIST! YO!
Who’s that, flyin up there?
Is it a bird? Noooooo
Is it a plane? Noooooooo
Is it the twister? YEAAAAAAAHH!Twist again, like we did last summer,
Come on, Let’s twist again,
Like we did last year!!!!Do you remember when, things were really hummin’,
Come on, let’s twist again,
Twistin’ time is hereHeeee, and round and round and up and down we go again!
Oh, baby, make me know, you love me sooooo!
And then:
Come on, twist again, like we did last summer,
Let’s twist again, like we did last year!Come on, let’s twist again,
Twistin’ time is heeeere!
