About the song
Papa Loves Mambo: A Swinging Sensation of the 1950s
“Papa Loves Mambo” is a timeless classic that captured the exuberant spirit of the 1950s. Penned by the songwriting trio of Al Hoffman, Dick Manning, and Bix Reichner, the song was released in 1954, marking the beginning of its journey to becoming a beloved musical icon.
However, it was Perry Como’s rendition that truly catapulted “Papa Loves Mambo” into the stratosphere of popular music. Recorded with the masterful Mitchell Ayres Orchestra in New York City, Como’s version exudes a contagious energy and charm that perfectly encapsulates the infectious rhythm of the mambo. Released in 1954, it skyrocketed to the number four spot on the Billboard chart the following year, becoming a quintessential example of the mambo craze that swept the nation.
The song’s popularity wasn’t confined to Como’s recording alone. Bing Crosby, Johnnie Ray, and Nat King Cole also added their unique interpretations to the growing repertoire of “Papa Loves Mambo” recordings. This widespread appeal is a testament to the song’s universal charm and its ability to resonate with audiences of diverse musical tastes.
Beyond its chart-topping success, “Papa Loves Mambo” has left an enduring legacy in popular culture. From its near-miss inclusion in the iconic film “Back to the Future” to its appearances in television shows and video games, the song continues to find new audiences and evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy.
In essence, “Papa Loves Mambo” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that encapsulates the vibrant and carefree spirit of an era. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s timeless appeal and its ability to transport listeners to a bygone era of musical exuberance.
Video
Lyrics
Papa loves mambo
Mama loves mambo
Look at ’em sway with it, gettin’ so gay with it
Shoutin’ ole with it, wow
Papa loves mambo (papa loves mambo)
Mama loves mambo (mama loves mambo)
Papa does great with it, swings like a gate with it
He loses weight with it now
Now he goes to, she goes fro
He goes fast, she goes slow
He goes left, mm, she goes right
Papa’s lookin’ for mama, but mama is nowhere in sight
Papa loves mambo
Mama loves mambo
Havin’ their fling again, younger than spring again
Feelin’ that zing again, wow
Papa loves mambo (papa loves mambo)
Mama loves mambo (mama loves mambo)
Don’t let her rumba and don’t let her samba
‘Cause papa loves mama tonight
Papa loves mambo
Mama loves mambo
Papa loves mambo
Mama loves mambo
He goes to, she goes fro
He goes fast, she goes slow
He goes left, mm, she goes right
Papa’s lookin’ for mama, but mama is nowhere in sight
Papa loves mambo (papa loves mambo)
Mama loves mambo (mama loves mambo)
Havin’ their fling again, younger than spring again
Feelin’ that zing again, wow
mambo papa
(Mama loves mambo) mambo mama
Don’t let her rumba and don’t let her samba
‘Cause papa loves the mambo tonight