About the song
“Move It” with Cliff Richard: A Rock ‘n’ Roll Revolution
If you were lucky enough to have been a teenager in the late 1950s, you’ll undoubtedly remember the electrifying sound of Cliff Richard and his band, The Drifters. Their hit single,”Move It”, was more than just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon that helped shape the sound of rock and roll.
Released in 1958,”Move It” was a raw and energetic track that captured the spirit of the times. The song’s title itself was a direct command to the listener, urging them to get up and dance. With its driving rhythm and simple yet catchy lyrics,”Move It” became an instant hit and is often credited as the first British rock and roll record.
Before Cliff Richard and “Move It”, the British music scene was largely dominated by traditional pop and jazz.Cliff’s breakthrough marked a turning point, as he introduced a new sound that was both exciting and rebellious. The song’s success helped pave the way for a new generation of British musicians, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Kinks.
What made “Move It” so groundbreaking? For one, it was the song’s raw energy and simplicity. There were no complex arrangements or studio tricks; it was just a great band playing their hearts out. The lyrics, while simple, were effective in conveying a sense of youthful exuberance and excitement.
But perhaps the most significant aspect of “Move It” was its impact on British culture. The song helped to create a sense of identity for young people who were eager to break free from the constraints of the previous generation. Cliff Richard became a role model for millions of teenagers, and “Move It” served as the soundtrack to their coming-of-age.
“Move It” has since become a classic of the rock and roll era. It has been covered by countless artists over the years and continues to be a popular choice at rock and roll revival shows. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to its timeless quality.
If you’ve never heard “Move It” before, or if it’s been a while since you’ve listened to it, I encourage you to give it another listen. You’ll be amazed at how fresh and exciting it still sounds today.
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