About the song
Released in 1977 as part of The Commodores’ self-titled album (known as “Zoom” in the UK), “Brick House” isn’t just a song – it’s a guaranteed party starter. This iconic funk track climbed the charts, peaking at number 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and leaving its mark on the music scene.
But “Brick House” is more than just chart success. It’s a testament to the songwriting prowess of Lionel Richie, who penned the song with a playful wink. The title, as Richie himself revealed, is a double entendre – a clever spin on the phrase “built like a brick shithouse,” signifying a woman of impressive strength and stature.
While the lyrics are undeniably catchy, the song’s true power lies in its infectious groove. The driving bassline, punctuated by rhythmic horns and Lionel Richie’s signature vocals, creates an irresistible energy that pulls you onto the dance floor.
The impact of “Brick House” extends far beyond its initial release. It’s been hailed as one of the greatest funk songs ever by publications like Billboard, and its influence continues to inspire artists across genres. Numerous cover versions exist, each paying homage to the song’s timeless appeal.
So, the next time you hear the opening chords of “Brick House,” remember the story behind the song. It’s not just a celebration of a strong woman, it’s a testament to the enduring power of funk music and its ability to get you moving.
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Lyrics
Ow, she’s a brick house
She’s mighty-mighty, just lettin’ it all hang out
She’s a brick house
That lady’s stacked and that’s a fact
Ain’t holding nothing back
Ow, she’s a brick house
Well put-together, everybody knows
This is how the story goes
She knows she got everything
That a woman needs to get a man, yeah, yeah
How can she lose with the stuff she use
Thirty-six, twenty-four, thirty-six oh what a winning hand
‘Cause she’s a brick house
She’s mighty-mighty, just lettin’ it all hang out
She’s a brick house
Ow, that lady stacked and that’s a fact
Ain’t holding nothing back
Ow, she’s a brick house
Yeah, she’s the one, the only one, built like an amazon
The clothes she wears, her sexy ways
Make an old man wish for younger days, yeah, yeah
She knows she’s built and knows how to please
Sure enough to knock a strong man to his knees
‘Cause she’s a brick house
Yeah, she’s mighty mighty, just lettin’ it all hang out
She’s a brick house
The lady’s stacked and that’s a fact
Ain’t holding nothing back
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Brick house
Yeah, she’s mighty mighty, just lettin’ it all hang out
She’s a brick house
Yeah, she’s the one, the only one, built like an amazon, yeah
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it, shake it
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it
Ow, a brick house