About the song
Sister Sledge, a name that resonates with the vibrant energy of the late 1970s disco era, graced the music scene with their hit “He’s the Greatest Dancer” in 1979. This track, a shining jewel in the disco crown, is featured on their album “We Are Family.” Known for their impeccable harmonies and infectious rhythms, Sister Sledge made an indelible mark on the music industry with this unforgettable song.
Sister Sledge, comprised of sisters Debbie, Joni, Kim, and Kathy Sledge, began their musical journey in the early 1970s. However, it was their collaboration with the renowned production duo Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of Chic that truly propelled them to stardom. The album “We Are Family,” released in 1979, was a groundbreaking success, encapsulating the essence of the disco era.
“He’s the Greatest Dancer” exemplifies the signature sound that made Sister Sledge a household name. The song’s infectious groove, characterized by Rodgers’ signature guitar riffs and Edwards’ thumping bass lines, is complemented by the sisters’ soulful vocals. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a dazzling figure on the dance floor, exuding charisma and style. This track not only captures the exuberance of disco but also showcases the vocal prowess and harmonious blend of the Sledge sisters.
The success of “He’s the Greatest Dancer” was immediate and far-reaching. The song soared to number one on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart and reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100. Its popularity was not confined to the United States alone; it also made a significant impact on international charts, further cementing Sister Sledge’s global appeal.
“We Are Family,” the album that houses this hit, is a testament to the artistic synergy between Sister Sledge and Chic. The album’s title track, “We Are Family,” became an anthem of unity and celebration, further establishing the group as icons of the disco movement. The album’s cohesive production and vibrant tracks reflect the era’s optimism and joy, making it a timeless classic.
For those who experienced the disco era firsthand, “He’s the Greatest Dancer” is a nostalgic reminder of a time when the dance floor was a place of pure joy and expression. For newer listeners, it offers a glimpse into the exuberant spirit of the late 1970s. Sister Sledge’s contribution to music, characterized by their harmonious vocals and unforgettable melodies, remains influential and celebrated across generations. Whether revisiting this classic or hearing it anew, “He’s the Greatest Dancer” continues to enchant and inspire, a true testament to the enduring legacy of Sister Sledge.
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Lyrics
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow
That I’ve ever seen
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow
One night in a disco on the outskirts of Frisco
I was cruising with my favorite gang
The place was so boring filled with out-of-towners touring
I knew that it wasn’t my thing
I really wasn’t caring, but I felt my eyes staring
At a guy who stuck out in the crowd
He had the kind of body that would shame Adonis
And a face that would make any man proud
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow
That I’ve ever seen (ooh)
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow
The champion of dance, his moves will put you in a trance
And he never leaves the disco alone
Arrogance but not conceit, as a man he’s complete
My creme de la creme, please take me home
He wears the finest clothes, the best designers Heaven knows
Ooh, from his head down to his toes
Halston, Gucci, Fiorucci
He looks like a still, that man is dressed to kill
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow
That I’ve ever seen (I’ve ever seen)
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow (ooh, ooh, ooh-wow)
Oh, what, wow (hey)
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow
That I’ve ever seen (I love your moves)
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow (that I’ve ever seen)
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow
That I’ve ever seen (I’ve ever seen)
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow (ooh, ooh, ooh-wow)
Oh, what, wow (hey)
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow
That I’ve ever seen (I love your moves)
Oh, what, wow
He’s the greatest dancer
Oh, what, wow (that I’ve ever seen)