About the song
“Move It” isn’t just a song; it’s a landmark moment in British music history. Released in 1958 by Cliff Richard and the Drifters (later known as The Shadows), the song wasn’t initially intended for stardom. Originally planned as the B-side to another track, “Move It” found itself thrust into the spotlight thanks to a twist of fate.
The song’s origins are as unexpected as its impact. Composed by Ian “Sammy” Samwell on a double-decker bus ride to Cliff’s house, “Move It” was a response to a critical article dismissing rock and roll. Fueled by youthful defiance and a love for the genre, the song became an anthem for a generation yearning for a new sound.
While “Schoolboy Crush” was slated as the A-side, producer Jack Good recognized the raw energy of “Move It” and insisted it take center stage. This decision proved pivotal, propelling “Move It” to number 2 on the UK Singles Chart and launching Cliff Richard’s career. “Move It” wasn’t just a hit; it’s often hailed as Britain’s first authentic rock and roll song, paving the way for a musical revolution.
The song’s influence extended beyond the charts. The Beatles themselves acknowledged “Move It” as a defining moment in British rock, with John Lennon crediting it as “the first English record that was anywhere near anything.” Years later, Led Zeppelin even included “Move It” on their compilation album “Led Zeppelin: The Music that Rocked Us,” a testament to the song’s enduring legacy.
“Move It” is more than just catchy lyrics and a driving beat; it’s a symbol of rebellion and the birth of a new musical era. From its unexpected origins to its lasting influence, the song continues to resonate with listeners. Even today, Cliff Richard performs “Move It” with an additional verse penned by the original songwriter, a reminder of the song’s evolution and enduring spirit. For British rock and roll, “Move It” wasn’t just a song; it was the sound of a movement taking its first steps.
Video
Lyrics
Come on pretty baby, let’s move it and groove it
Well a shake-a baby shake, oh! honey please don’t lose it.
It’s rhythm that “gets you” heart and soul
Let me tell you baby; it’s called rock an’roll.
They say, it’s gonna die: oh! honey bee let’s face it;
They just don’t know what’s-a goin’ to replace it.
Ballads’ and calypsos’, they’ve got nothing on real
Country music that drives along.
Come one honey, move it
Well, let’s move
Well, move it
The new second verse:
Come on pretty baby let’s move it an’ a groove it
Dance honey dance baby please don’t lose it
’cause’ all over town there’s a brand new beat
An’ it’s hangin’ in the air like the mississippi heat
Fireflies in the night an’ bullfrogs croakin’
Well here comes the train an’ boy is she smokin’
Headed out from new orleans ‘n’ clear to l.a.
Ya’ better get ready it’s a brand new day
Honey move it