About the song
“The Loco-Motion,” a catchy pop tune birthed in the vibrant era of the early 1960s, has undeniably left an indelible mark on the annals of music history. Crafted by the songwriting duo of Gerry Goffin and Carole King, this infectious melody initially found its home in the burgeoning R&B scene, intended for the talented Dee Dee Sharp. Yet, fate intervened, and the song would ultimately become synonymous with a different voice.
Little Eva, whose real name was Eva Boyd, breathed life into “The Loco-Motion” with her spirited rendition. Released in 1962 under the newly formed Dimension Records label, the song swiftly climbed the charts, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Its simple, repetitive lyrics, coupled with an irresistible rhythm, perfectly captured the spirit of the times, inspiring a dance craze that swept the nation.
What sets “The Loco-Motion” apart is its remarkable longevity. This dance-oriented anthem achieved an unprecedented feat by securing three separate Top 3 positions on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in three distinct decades: 1962 with Little Eva, 1974 with Grand Funk Railroad, and 1988 with Kylie Minogue. This enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s universal appeal and its ability to resonate with audiences across generations.
Beyond its chart-topping success, “The Loco-Motion” has also solidified its place in music lore. It holds the distinction of being only the second song in history to reach number one with two different artists, a testament to its timeless quality. Moreover, the song’s influence extends beyond the music industry, inspiring countless covers, dance routines, and even a place in cinematic history.
As we delve deeper into the story of “The Loco-Motion,” we uncover fascinating details about its creation and the woman who brought it to life. Little Eva’s journey from babysitter to pop sensation is a captivating tale, and the myths surrounding the song’s origins add an intriguing layer to its legacy. While the dance may have come after the song, it is undeniable that “The Loco-Motion” has become synonymous with movement and joy, a testament to its enduring power to captivate audiences and inspire generations.
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Lyrics
Everybody is doin’ a brand new dance, now
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
I know you’ll get to like it if you give it a chance now
Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)My little baby sister can do it with me
It’s easier than learning your A B C’s
So come on, come on, do the Loco-motion with meYou gotta swing your hips, now
Come on, baby Jump up, jump back
Well, now, I think you’ve got the knackNow that you can do it, let’s make a chain, now
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
A chug-a chug-a motion like a railroad train, now
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)Do it nice and easy, now, don’t lose control
A little bit of rhythm and a lot of soul
So come on, come on, do the Loco-motion with meMove around the floor in a Loco-motion
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
Do it holding hands if you get the notion
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)There’s never been a dance that’s so easy to do
It even makes you happy when you’re feeling blue
So come on, come on, do the Loco-motion with me