About the Song
Twistin’ the Night Away: Sam Cooke’s Dance Craze Anthem
Sam Cooke’s “Twistin’ the Night Away,” released in 1962, is a timeless classic that encapsulates the infectious energy of the early 1960s dance craze—the Twist. This rhythm and blues masterpiece, with its lively beat and catchy lyrics, painted a picture of a generation ready to let loose and have fun.
The Song
Backed by a tight band, Cooke’s soulful vocals invite everyone to the dance floor. The song’s simple yet effective lyrics capture the carefree abandon of dancing the night away:
“Come on baby, let’s do the twist, Come on baby, like you never did before, Come on baby, let’s do the twist, And take me by the hand.”
Sam Cooke’s voice, smooth and inviting, builds in intensity throughout the song. His masterful vocal runs and playful phrasing perfectly mirror the excitement of the moment.
Cultural Impact
“Twistin’ the Night Away” became synonymous with the freedom and youthful spirit of the era. The simple yet dynamic dance moves of the Twist made it accessible, and soon dance floors across the nation filled with a mix of young and old, all swept up in the craze.
Beyond its danceable qualities, “Twistin’ the Night Away” reflected the shifting social landscape of the time. Its playful, lighthearted tone, combined with Sam Cooke’s undeniable crossover appeal as a Black artist, signaled the rise of a more integrated pop culture scene.
Legacy
Sam Cooke’s “Twistin’ the Night Away” remains a beloved classic of the early rock ‘n’ roll era. The song is still celebrated today for its joyful sound, infectious rhythm, and enduring ability to get people up on their feet. It’s a testament to Cooke’s enduring talent and the timeless power of music to bring us together.
Video
Lyrics
Somewhere up-a New York way
Where the people are so gay
Twistin’ the night away
Here they have a lot of fun
Puttin’ trouble on the run
Man, you find the old and young
Twistin’ the night away
They’re twistin’, twistin’
Everybody’s feelin’ great
They’re twistin’, twistin’
They’re twistin’ the night away
Here’s a man in evening clothes
How he got here, I don’t know, but
Man, you oughta see him go
Twistin’ the night away
He’s dancin’ with a chick in slacks
She’s movin’ up and back
Oh, man, there ain’t nothin’ like
Twistin’ the night away
They’re twistin’, twistin’
Everybody’s feelin’ great
They’re twistin’, twistin’
They’re twistin’ the night
Let’s twist a while
Lean up
Lean back
Lean up
Lean back
Watusi
Now fly
Now twist
They’re twistin’ the night away
Here’s a fella in blue jeans
Dancin’ with an older queen
Who’s dolled up in her diamond rings and
Twistin’ the night away
Man, you oughta see her go
Twistin’ to the rock and roll
Here you find the young and old
Twistin’ the night away
They’re twistin’, twistin’, man
Everybody’s feelin’ great
They’re twistin’, twistin’
They’re twistin’ the night
One more time
Lean up
Lean back
Lean up
Lean back
Watusi
Now fly
Now twist