About the song
“Raise Your Hand,” performed by the legendary Tom Jones and the iconic Janis Joplin, is a powerful and electrifying song that combines the dynamic talents of two of the most influential artists in music history. This duet, recorded during a period when both artists were at the height of their careers, showcases their unique vocal styles and undeniable stage presence.
Tom Jones, known for his deep, robust voice and charismatic performances, and Janis Joplin, famous for her raw, emotive singing and rebellious spirit, bring a unique energy to “Raise Your Hand.” The song itself is a rousing call to action, encouraging listeners to seize the moment and assert themselves with confidence. It’s a perfect match for Joplin’s gritty, passionate delivery and Jones’s commanding presence.
Originally written by Steve Cropper, Eddie Floyd, and Alvertis Isbell, “Raise Your Hand” has a rich history. Eddie Floyd first released it in 1967, where it gained significant popularity within the R&B genre. However, it was the collaboration between Tom Jones and Janis Joplin that brought the song to a wider audience, adding a rock edge that resonated with fans across different music genres.
Although “Raise Your Hand” was not part of a specific album by Jones or Joplin, it stands out as a memorable performance in their respective discographies. Their live rendition of the song on “This Is Tom Jones,” a television variety show hosted by Jones himself, is particularly notable. This performance highlighted their chemistry and the raw power of their combined vocals, making it a standout moment in music television history.
The song’s message of empowerment and its infectious energy have helped it maintain its appeal over the years. While it may not have topped the charts like some of their other hits, “Raise Your Hand” remains a beloved piece, showcasing the extraordinary talents of Tom Jones and Janis Joplin. It’s a testament to their enduring legacies and their ability to inspire and captivate audiences with every note.
Video
Lyrics
If there’s anythin’ that you need,
Hon, that you’ve never, ever, ever had.
I know you’ve never had it.
Oh, honey, don’t you just sit there cryin’,
Don’t just sit there feelin’ bad.
No, no, no.
You’d better get up,
Now do you understand,
And raise you hand!
I said raise your hand, hey.
You know I’m standin’ about, yes I am.
Want to give you all my love.
Oh, honey, won’t you come on and open up,
I said, open up your heart.
Please, let me try.
You’d better to be good.
Don’t ya understand ?
Raise your hand.
I said, raise your hand,
Right here, right now, c’mon!!
Whoaaaaah, oh yeah!!
If there’s anything you need,
Honey, that you ever, ever, ever try,
I want you to give it up
I said to give it all, don’t you know that you have.
You’d better be good.
Don’t ya understand,
Raise your hand.
I said, raise your hand,
Raise it,
Raise it,
Raise it,
Raise,
Alright!!
Ha wah do wah
Ha wah do wah
Ha wah do wah
Ha wah do wah
Whoa
Whoa
Whoa, hon
Whoa, yeah
Whoa, hon
Whoa, yeah
I said every day when I go out
I said I wanna move.
Every day when I go out
I tell ya I wanna groove.
I said move, yeah
Said move now
Move, yeah
Whoa
Honey, I want you to come along
And raise your hand.
Babe, I want you to come along,
Raise your hand.
If you know where you belong
I’ll tell you
Here
And now
Said here and now
Said here now, now, now, now, now, now, now!
Raise your hand, yeah. [X4]
Raise your hand. [X8]
Hey, hey, hey, get it up now!
Hey, hey, get it up now!
Hey, hey, get it up now!
Hey, hey, get it up!
Raise your hand! [X6]
Raise your hand, yeah!
Yeah!!!
Whoa!!