About the song
Background
- Original Writer: “Mustang Sally” was originally written and recorded by Sir Mack Rice in 1965. It was a less energetic rhythm and blues song.
- Pickett’s Transformation: Wilson Pickett covered the song in 1966, transforming it into the iconic, energetic version we know today. Pickett and his team at Atlantic Records, along with the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, injected the song with a raw energy that made it a dance floor staple.
- Controversy: Some sources suggest The Young Rascals may have recorded “Mustang Sally” before Pickett, but their version was never officially released. This has led to some debate about the true origin of the famous arrangement.
Lyrics
The lyrics describe a woman named Sally who has a new Ford Mustang and enjoys driving it a bit too exuberantly. The singer repeatedly urges her to “slow your Mustang down.”
Themes
- Freedom and Recklessness: The song embodies a spirit of youthful freedom and perhaps a touch of recklessness. The imagery of the Mustang symbolizes a desire for independence and wild fun.
- Desire and Frustration: There’s a hint of jealousy or frustration in the repeated plea for Sally to slow down. It suggests that her carefree lifestyle is a source of some tension for the narrator, possibly a romantic interest.
- Unrestrained Energy: The driving rhythm and Pickett’s powerful vocals make the song a celebration of unrestrained energy and passion.
Legacy
Wilson Pickett’s version of “Mustang Sally” is a classic of soul and R&B. It’s been covered by countless artists, including The Commitments, Buddy Guy, and Bruce Springsteen, keeping the song alive for decades. It remains a favorite for its timeless energy and infectious groove.
Video
Lyrics
Mustang Sally, huh, huh, guess you better slow your mustang down
Oh Lord, what I said now?
Mustang Sally, now baby, oh Lord, guess you better slow your mustang down
Huh oh yeaah
You been running all over the town now
Oh! I guess I’ll have to put your flat feet on the ground
Huh, what I said now?
Listen
All you want to do is ride around Sally, ride, Sally, ride
All you want to do is ride around Sally, ride, Sally, ride
All you want to do is ride around Sally, ride, Sally, ride. Huh
All you want to do is ride around Sally, ride, Sally, ride
One of these early mornings, baby, you gonna be wiping your weeping eyes
Huh, what I said now?
Look it here.
I bought you a brand new mustang nineteen sixty five. Huh
Now you come around signifying a woman, you don’t wanna let me ride
Mustang Sally, now baby, oh Lord, guess you better slow that mustang down
Huh, oh Lord. Look here
You been running all over the town
Oh! I got to put your flat feet on the ground. Huh, What I said now?
Let me say it one more time ya’ll
All you want to do is ride around Sally, ride, Sally, ride
All you want to do is ride around Sally, ride, Sally, ride
…