About the song
Step back to 1960s America, a time of bobby socks, poodle skirts, and infectious melodies. It’s here we find the origins of “Poetry in Motion,” a song that captured the essence of youthful charm and became a chart-topping sensation on both sides of the Atlantic.
While the single boasts multiple recordings, the version most etched in music history belongs to Johnny Tillotson. But the story starts with songwriters Paul Kaufman and Mike Anthony. According to them, inspiration struck in the most unexpected way: a daily dose of window-gazing. Working long hours, they’d occasionally catch a glimpse of young women from a nearby school, their graceful movements sparking the song’s central theme.
The infectious melody and playful lyrics, celebrating a woman’s captivating way of moving, soon found its way to Nashville recording studios. Under Bill Porter’s supervision, a stellar lineup of musicians brought the song to life. Saxophonist Boots Randolph, known for his signature smooth sound, pianist Floyd Cramer, and bassist Floyd “Lightning” Chance all contributed their magic. Interestingly, an alternative version featuring King Curtis on saxophone also exists, a testament to the song’s versatile appeal.
“Poetry in Motion” took the US by storm, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, it faced stiff competition from Ray Charles’ timeless classic, “Georgia on My Mind,” which claimed the coveted top spot. Undeterred, the song found its true glory across the pond, reaching the pinnacle of the UK Singles Chart in January 1961. This international success solidified its place as a bona fide pop anthem.
The song’s influence extended beyond national borders. In 1966, Swedish pop group Ola & the Janglers released their cover, achieving No. 1 on the Swedish “Tio i Topp” chart. This enduring popularity across continents speaks volumes about the song’s universal appeal.
So, as the first notes of “Poetry in Motion” begin to play, let yourself be transported to a simpler time. Imagine the carefree rhythm, the playful lyrics, and the sheer joy of movement the song celebrates. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most captivating inspiration can come from the beauty of everyday life.
Video
Lyrics
When I see my baby
What do I see
Poetry
Poetry in motion
Poetry in motion
Walkin’ by my side
Her lovely locomotion
Keeps my eyes open wide
Poetry in motion
See her gentle sway
A wave out on the ocean
Could never move that way
I love every movement
And there’s nothing I would change
She doesn’t need improvement
She’s much too nice to rearrange
Poetry in motion
Dancing close to me
A flower of devotion
A swaying gracefully
Whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa
Poetry in motion
See her gentle sway
A wave out on the ocean
Could never move that way
I love every movement
There’s nothing I would change
She doesn’t need improvement
She’s much too nice to rearrange
Poetry in motion
All that I adore
No number-nine love potion
Could make me love her more
Whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa