About the song
“Move It”: The Birth of British Rock ‘n’ Roll
If you’re a fan of classic rock and roll, chances are you’ve heard of Cliff Richard & The Shadows. Their groundbreaking hit, “Move It”, is often hailed as the birth of rock ‘n’ roll in the United Kingdom. Released in 1958, this energetic tune swept across the nation and introduced a whole new generation of music lovers to the exhilarating sounds of rock and roll.
Before “Move It”, British music was dominated by traditional pop and folk. Cliff Richard, with his charismatic voice and rebellious image, and The Shadows, with their innovative guitar work, completely changed the game. “Move It” was a raw, high-energy track that captured the excitement and energy of the youth culture at the time. The lyrics, while simple, were incredibly catchy and encouraged listeners to get up and dance.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, Cliff Richard’s powerful vocals provided the perfect counterpoint to The Shadows’ driving instrumentation. The band’s use of electric guitars and a prominent bassline created a sound that was both familiar and fresh. Additionally, the song’s upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm made it impossible to resist.
“Move It” was more than just a popular song; it was a cultural phenomenon. The track helped to break down barriers between different social classes and brought people together through a shared love of music. It also inspired a new generation of British musicians, including The Beatles, who would go on to achieve even greater international success.
While “Move It” may have been released over six decades ago, its influence can still be heard in music today. The song’s blend of rockabilly and early rock ‘n’ roll has been sampled and covered by countless artists. It remains a timeless classic that continues to excite and inspire listeners of all ages.
If you’ve never had the chance to hear “Move It”, I highly recommend giving it a listen. It’s a fantastic example of early rock ‘n’ roll and a must-have for any music lover’s collection. So, turn up the volume and get ready to move it!
Video
Lyrics
Come on pretty baby, let’s move it and groove it
Well a shake-a baby shake, oh! honey please don’t lose it.
It’s rhythm that “gets you” heart and soul
Let me tell you baby; it’s called rock an’roll.
They say, it’s gonna die: oh! honey bee let’s face it;
They just don’t know what’s-a goin’ to replace it.
Ballads’ and calypsos’, they’ve got nothing on real
Country music that drives along.
Come one honey, move it
Well, let’s move
Well, move it
The new second verse:
Come on pretty baby let’s move it an’ a groove it
Dance honey dance baby please don’t lose it
’cause’ all over town there’s a brand new beat
An’ it’s hangin’ in the air like the mississippi heat
Fireflies in the night an’ bullfrogs croakin’
Well here comes the train an’ boy is she smokin’
Headed out from new orleans ‘n’ clear to l.a.
Ya’ better get ready it’s a brand new day
Honey move it