About the song
Martha and the Vandellas’ “Dancing in the Street” (1964) is an iconic Motown hit with a vibrant sound and uplifting message.
Background:
- Originally written by Marvin Gaye, William “Mickey” Stevenson, and Ivy Jo Hunter.
- Became a massive hit for Martha and the Vandellas, reaching #2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
- Considered one of the anthems of the Civil Rights Movement due to its themes of unity and celebration.
Themes:
- Unity and Community: The song celebrates the joy of coming together as a community to dance and forget about troubles. It emphasizes the power of music and dance to transcend differences and bring people together.
- Freedom and Expression: “Dancing in the Street” encourages listeners to let loose and express themselves freely through dance. The song’s energetic rhythm and joyful lyrics evoke a sense of liberation and uninhibited joy.
- Summer Celebration: The song’s lyrics mention summer and the heat, suggesting that dancing in the street is a way to celebrate the season and enjoy the warm weather.
Lyrics:
The lyrics are simple yet powerful, focusing on the act of dancing as a universal language of joy and connection. Some key phrases include:
- “Callin’ out around the world / Are you ready for a brand new beat?” (inviting everyone to join in the celebration)
- “Forget all your troubles, put your worries on the shelf” (encouraging listeners to let go of their burdens)
- “They’re dancing in Chicago / Down in New Orleans” (highlighting the universality of dance)
Overall, “Dancing in the Street” is a timeless song that continues to inspire joy and unity. Its message of celebration and freedom through dance resonates across generations and cultures.
Video
Lyrics
Callin’ out around the worldAre you ready for a brand new beatSummer’s here and the time is rightFor dancing in the street
They’re dancing in Chicago (dancing in the street)Down in New Orleans (dancing in the street)In New York City (dancing in the street)All we need is music, sweet musicThere’ll be music everywhere
There’ll be swingin’ and swayin’ and records playingDancing in the street
Oh it doesn’t matter what you wearJust as long as you are thereSo come on ev’ry guy grab a girlEverywhere around the world
There’ll be dancing (dancing in the street)They’re dancing in the streetDancing in the street
It’s just an invitation across the nationA chance for folks to meetThere’ll be laughing, singing and music swingingDancing in the street
Philadelphia, PA (dancing in the street)Baltimore and D.C. now (dancing in the street)Can’t forget the Motor City (dancing in the street)
All we need is music, sweet musicThere’ll be music everywhereThere’ll be swingin’, swayin’ and records playingAnd dancing in the street
Oh, it doesn’t matter what you wearJust as long as you are thereSo come on, every guy grab a girlEverywhere around the world
They’re dancingThey’re dancing in the street (dancing in the street)Way down in L.A., every day, they’re dancing in the streetLet’s get our big strong long, get on time (they’re dancing in the street)Across the ocean blue, me and you (we’re dancing in the street)