About the song
The Coasters’ “Yakety Yak”: A Timeless Tune of Teenage Rebellion
If you were to compile a playlist of songs that have defined the era of rock and roll,The Coasters’ “Yakety Yak” would undoubtedly secure a prominent spot. Released in 1958, this infectious tune has not only stood the test of time but has also become a cultural touchstone, capturing the spirit of a generation.
At its core, “Yakety Yak” is a playful and humorous take on the age-old conflict between teenagers and their parents. The song’s lyrics, penned by the legendary songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, paint a vivid picture of a young person’s frustration with constant nagging from their elders. The repetitive chorus, “Yakety yak, don’t talk back,” is a memorable earworm that encapsulates the essence of teenage rebellion.
The Coasters’ delivery of the song is nothing short of iconic. Their tight harmonies and energetic performances brought a sense of authenticity and vitality to the music. The group’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of rhythm and blues, doo-wop, and early rock and roll made them one of the most popular vocal groups of the 1950s.
Beyond its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, “Yakety Yak” has resonated with audiences for several reasons. First, the song taps into a universal experience that transcends generations. The tension between parents and teenagers is a timeless theme that has been explored in countless works of art. Second, the song’s upbeat tempo and positive energy make it a fun and enjoyable listen. Even after all these years, “Yakety Yak” still has the power to lift people’s spirits.
The cultural impact of “Yakety Yak” cannot be overstated. The song has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and it has been covered by countless artists. It has also become a staple of classic rock radio stations around the world. Furthermore, the song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to connect people from different backgrounds and experiences.
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Lyrics
Take out the papers and the trash
Or you don’t get no spendin’ cash
If you don’t scrub that kitchen floor
You ain’t gonna rock and roll no more
Yakety yak (don’t talk back)
Just finish cleanin’ up your room
Let’s see that dust fly with that broom
Get all that garbage out of sight
Or you don’t go out Friday night
Yakety yak (don’t talk back)
You just put on your coat and hat
And walk yourself to the laundromat
And when you finish doin’ that
Bring in the dog and put out the cat
Yakety yak (don’t talk back)
Don’t you give me no dirty looks
Your father’s hip, he knows what cooks
Just tell your hoodlum friend outside
You ain’t got time to take a ride
Yakety yak (don’t talk back)
Yakety yak, yakety yak
Yakety yak, yakety yak
Yakety yak, yakety yak
Yakety yak, yakety yak