Timeless Classic: “The Locomotion” by Little Eva

About the song

Remember those carefree days of sock hops and jukebox heroes? If so, then the name Little Eva likely rings a bell. Her 1962 hit, “The Loco-Motion,” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a snapshot of an era, a testament to the power of a simple, infectious melody, and a song that has stood the test of time.

Written by the legendary songwriting duo King and Goffin, “The Loco-Motion” was originally intended for another artist. However, fate intervened, and it was Little Eva, Carole King’s babysitter, who brought the song to life. It’s a fascinating story of how a chance encounter and a change of plans led to one of the most enduring dance crazes of the 20th century.

The song’s infectious rhythm and simple, repetitive lyrics make it incredibly easy to learn and dance to. Who could resist the urge to get up and “do the locomotion” when they heard those iconic opening chords? It’s a song that has the power to transport listeners back to a simpler time, when life’s biggest worries were choosing the right outfit for a dance or finding a date for the prom.

One of the most interesting things about “The Loco-Motion” is the two distinct versions that exist. Some recordings feature handclaps during the verses, while others do not. This small difference has led to some debate among fans, but both versions are equally beloved. It’s a testament to the song’s enduring popularity that it has remained a staple of radio playlists and dance floors for over six decades.

Beyond its catchy melody and simple lyrics, “The Loco-Motion” is also significant for its place in music history. As the first release on Dimension Records, a label founded by King and Goffin, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in the careers of these two talented songwriters. Moreover, the song’s success helped to launch Little Eva’s career, and she quickly became one of the most popular female singers of the early 1960s.

So, the next time you hear “The Loco-Motion” on the radio, take a moment to appreciate the song’s rich history and its enduring appeal. It’s a timeless classic that continues to bring joy to people of all ages.

Video

Lyrics

Everybody’s doing a brand new dance now
(Come on, baby, do the loco-motion)
I know you’ll get to like it if you give it a chance now
(Come on, baby, do the loco-motion)

My little baby sister can do it with ease
It’s easier than learning your A-B-C’s
So come on, come on, do the loco-motion with me
You gotta swing your hips now
Come on, baby
Jump up, jump back
Well, I think you’ve got the knack, whoa, whoa

Now that you can do it, let’s make a chain now
(Come on, baby, do the loco-motion)
A chugga-chugga motion like a railroad train now
(Come on, baby, do the loco-motion)

Do it nice and easy now, don’t lose control
A little bit of rhythm and a lotta soul
Come on, come on, do the loco-motion with me

Yay, yay, yay, yeah
Move around the floor in a loco-motion
(Come on, baby, do the loco-motion)
Do it holding hands if you do get the notion
(Come on, baby, do the loco-motion)

There’s never been a dance that’s so easy to do
It even makes you happy when you’re feeling blue
So come on, come on, do the loco-motion with me
(Come on) you gotta swing your hips now

(Come on) that’s right (do the loco-motion)
You’re doing fine (come on, do the loco-motion)
Come on, baby (come on, do the loco-motion)
Mm-mm-mm
Jump up (come on) jump back (do the loco-motion)
You’re looking good (come on)