About the song
“Sha Na Na’s rendition of ‘Duke Of Earl’ in 1973 is a timeless homage to the golden era of doo-wop and rock ‘n’ roll. Originally a hit for Gene Chandler in the early 1960s, Sha Na Na’s cover brought a fresh energy to this classic track, infusing it with their trademark vocal harmonies and retro charm.
The song ‘Duke Of Earl’ was penned by Gene Chandler himself, along with Bernice Williams and Earl Edwards, and first released in 1962. It quickly climbed the charts, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a beloved anthem of the era. Sha Na Na’s rendition was featured on their self-titled debut album, which showcased their ability to revive and celebrate the music of the 1950s and 1960s for a new generation.
Sha Na Na, formed in 1969, gained prominence for their performances at the Woodstock Festival in 1969 and their subsequent appearances on television, including their own variety show. Known for their nostalgic approach to rock ‘n’ roll, Sha Na Na’s cover of ‘Duke Of Earl’ resonated with audiences who appreciated their authentic sound and stage presence.
The group’s version of ‘Duke Of Earl’ maintained the song’s original doo-wop essence while adding a playful, theatrical flair that characterized Sha Na Na’s style. Their rendition became a hit in its own right, capturing the hearts of listeners who enjoyed both the nostalgia of the original and the modern twist brought by Sha Na Na’s interpretation.
Overall, Sha Na Na’s 1973 recording of ‘Duke Of Earl’ stands as a testament to their ability to honor and rejuvenate classic rock ‘n’ roll, ensuring that the spirit and magic of the genre continued to resonate with audiences well beyond its initial era.”
Video
Lyrics
Duke, Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl
Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl
Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl
Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl
Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl
Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl
Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl
Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl
As I walk through this world
Nothing can stop the Duke of Earl
And-a you, you are my girl
And no one can hurt you, oh no
Yes-a, I, oh I’m gonna love you, oh oh
Come on let me hold you darlin’
‘Cause I’m the Duke of Earl
So hey yea yea yeah
And when I hold you
You’ll be my Duchess, Duchess of Earl
We’ll walk through my dukedom
And a paradise we will share
Yes-a, I, oh I’m gonna love you, oh oh
Nothing can stop me now
‘Cause I’m the Duke of Earl
So hey yeah yeah yeah
Well, I, oh I’m gonna love you, oh oh
Nothing can stop me now
‘Cause I’m the Duke of Earl
So hey yeah yeah yeah