About the Song
Shake by Sam Cooke: A Soulful Anthem for the Ages
In the realm of soul music, few figures stand as tall and influential as Sam Cooke. With his mellifluous voice, heartfelt lyrics, and captivating stage presence, Cooke captivated audiences worldwide and left an indelible mark on the genre. Among his extensive repertoire of hits, “Shake” stands out as a quintessential soul anthem, a song that encapsulates the essence of Cooke’s artistry and continues to inspire generations of listeners.
Released in 1964, “Shake” was the lead single from Cooke’s album of the same name. It marked a departure from his previous work, showcasing a more upbeat and danceable sound while still retaining his signature soulful touch. The song’s infectious beat, driven by a pulsating rhythm section and Cooke’s own spirited vocals, immediately captured the attention of listeners, propelling it to the top of the charts.
Beyond its catchy melody and danceable rhythm, “Shake” is a song that speaks to the universal human desire for joy, liberation, and self-expression. Cooke’s lyrics, infused with a sense of exuberance and playful abandon, invite listeners to let loose and embrace the music’s infectious energy. He sings, “Shake, shake, shake, shake / Listen while I talk to you / I tell you what we’re gonna do / There’s a new thing that’s goin’ ’round / And I’ll tell you what they’re puttin’ down / Just move your body all around / And just shake.”
“Shake”‘s impact extends far beyond the confines of a single song. It has become an anthem for celebrations, a soundtrack for self-expression, and a timeless reminder of the power of music to uplift and unite. Cooke’s soulful rendition has been covered by countless artists across genres, each bringing their own interpretation to the song while still preserving its essence.
In a world often filled with discord and division, “Shake” stands as a beacon of unity and joy. It is a song that transcends generations and cultures, reminding us of the simple pleasures of life and the power of music to bring people together. Sam Cooke’s “Shake” is more than just a song; it is a testament to the enduring power of soul music to move, inspire, and unite us all.
Video
Lyric
Shake!
Shake!
Shake!
Shake!
Listen
Listen while I talk to you
I tell you what we’re gonna do
There’s a new thing that’s going around
And I’ll tell you what they’re puttin’ down
Just move your body all around
And just shake
Oh, mamma
Shake
Thats the way to do it
Shake
Oh, you’re looking good now
Shake
Yeah, ha
Shake it like a bowl of soup
And make your body loop de loop
Put your hands on your hips
And kinda let your backbone slip
Move your body like a whip
And just shake!
Umm, that’s doing it
Shake
Yeah, you’re looking good now
Shake
Go on, do it baby
Shake
Yeah, Ohh
A ring-a-ling-a-ling
Honey, shakin’ is the latest thing
And if you wanna swing
Just loosen up them shoulders
And if you wanna really roll
You got to do the thing with soul
Shake the shake with all your might
Oh, if you do it, do it right
Just make your body loose and light
And kinda shake
Oh, honey
Shake
Hoooo
Shake
Oh, that’s the way to do it
Shake
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-yeah
Alright
Oh, you’re doing it now honey
C’mon, loosen up them shoulders
If you wanna really roll
Got to do the thing with soul
Shake the shake with all your might
Now, if you do it, do it right
Make your body loose and light
And just shake
Oh, I like to do it
Shake
Make me feel good now
Shake
All gone baby
Shake
Don’t be shy now
Shake
Dance, with you mama
Shake
Don’t, do it baby
Shake
Oh, yeah
Shake