About the song
“Walking Like an Egyptian” became not just a hit song, but a cultural phenomenon upon its release in September 1986 by the American band, The Bangles. Featured on their second studio album, *Different Light*, the track swiftly ascended to the top of the charts, marking the band’s first number-one single and earning a gold certification from the RIAA. Its success was underscored by Billboard naming it the top song of 1987.
The genesis of “Walk Like an Egyptian” traces back to Liam Sternberg’s unconventional inspiration while crossing the English Channel. Observing passengers navigating rough waters, their awkward movements reminded him of ancient Egyptian art, characterized by distinctive poses and gestures. This led to Sternberg jotting down the iconic phrase, “Walk like an Egyptian,” which would later evolve into the song’s central theme.
Initially recorded with singer Marti Jones, the track found its definitive form under the production of David Kahne for *Different Light*. The Bangles’ rendition featured a lively tempo and whimsical lyrics that juxtaposed ancient Egyptian motifs with modern-day scenes, including references to blonde waitresses and school children. The song’s composition cleverly weaves together imagery of Egyptian hieroglyphs, the Nile River, and desert landscapes with contemporary pop culture elements.
Recording sessions were not without tension, particularly concerning the allocation of vocal parts among band members. Ultimately, lead vocals were divided among Vicki Peterson, Michael Steele, and Susanna Hoffs, while Debbi Peterson, relegated to backing vocals, expressed discontent over the use of a drum machine in place of her drumming. Despite these internal challenges, the band’s collective effort and Kahne’s production prowess solidified the song’s infectious appeal.
Critically, “Walk Like an Egyptian” garnered mixed reviews, with some highlighting its catchy, eastern-influenced melodies and others critiquing its departure from the Bangles’ established style. Nevertheless, its commercial impact was undeniable, peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and contributing significantly to the success of *Different Light*.
Accompanying the song’s release was a memorable music video that further embedded its imagery in popular culture. Nominated for Best Group Video at the 1987 MTV Video Music Awards, the video depicted the Bangles performing amidst scenes of people emulating ancient Egyptian poses on New York City streets, blending historical inspiration with contemporary urban visuals.
Beyond its initial release, “Walk Like an Egyptian” experienced a resurgence in 1990 with a reissue in the UK, coinciding with the Bangles’ Greatest Hits album. Despite controversies, such as alleged airplay restrictions post-9/11, the song’s enduring popularity underscores its status as a quintessential ’80s anthem, celebrated for its catchy tune, playful lyrics, and iconic cultural references.
In conclusion, “Walk Like an Egyptian” stands as a testament to The Bangles’ ability to blend historical intrigue with modern musical sensibilities, creating a timeless hit that remains a staple of ’80s pop music nostalgia.
Video
Lyrics
All the old paintings on the tombs,
They do the sand dance,
Don’t you know?If they move too quick
They’re falling down like a domino.All the bazaar men by the Nile,
They got the money on a bet.Gold crocodiles they snap their teeth
On your cigarette.Foreign types with their hookah pipes say
Walk like an Egyptian.The blond waitresses take their trays
They spin around and they cross the floor;
They’ve got the moves.
You drop your drink then they bring you more.All the school kids so sick of books,
They like the punk and the metal band.
When the buzzer rings,
They’re walking like an Egyptian.All the kids in the marketplace say:
Walk like an Egyptian.Slide your feet up the street
Bend your back
Shift your arm then you pull it back.Life’s hard you know
So strike a pose on a Cadillac.If you want to find all the cops
They’re hanging out in the donut shop.
They sing and dance
They spin the clubs cruise down the block.All the Japanese with their yen
The party boys call the Kremlin
And the Chinese know
They walk the line like Egyptian.All the cops in the donut shop say:
Walk like an Egyptian
Walk like an Egyptian.