About the song
A timeless classic that has stood the test of time, “The Loco-Motion” is a song that has captured the hearts of generations. Penned by the songwriting duo of Carole King and Gerry Goffin, this catchy tune has become synonymous with its infectious dance moves and upbeat energy.
The song’s origins can be traced back to the early 1960s when King and Goffin were looking for a new artist to record their latest composition. They initially hoped to have the song recorded by Dee Dee Sharp, who had recently enjoyed success with “Mashed Potato Time.” However, Sharp passed on the opportunity, leaving the door open for Eva Boyd, who had recorded a demo of the song. Impressed by her performance, Boyd’s name was changed to Little Eva, and her version of “The Loco-Motion” was released to the world.
“The Loco-Motion” marked the debut release for the newly formed Dimension Records company and quickly became a sensation. The song’s popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody, energetic rhythm, and simple yet effective lyrics that encourage listeners to get up and dance. There are two common versions of the song in circulation, one with handclaps during the verses and the other without. King herself provided the backup vocals for the recording.
The reception to “The Loco-Motion” was overwhelmingly positive. In the United States, the song reached number seven on the Billboard charts, making it one of the most successful singles of 1962. It also achieved considerable success in South Africa, reaching number three on the charts there.
In March 1965, Little Eva performed “The Loco-Motion” on the ABC-TV series “Shindig!” This performance is the only known video footage of her singing the song. The song’s enduring popularity led to a cover version by the British girl group The Vernons Girls, which also charted in the UK.
“The Loco-Motion” has continued to resonate with audiences over the years. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including David Lynch’s “Inland Empire.” In 2016, the 1962 Little Eva version of the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, solidifying its status as a musical landmark.
Despite the song’s widespread popularity, there are a few misconceptions surrounding its creation. Contrary to popular belief, Carole King did not come up with the dance for “The Loco-Motion.” It was Little Eva herself who created the iconic dance moves that have become synonymous with the song.
Another common misconception is that Little Eva only received $50 for her recording of “The Loco-Motion.” While she never owned the rights to her recordings, the $50 she reportedly received was actually her weekly salary during the years she was making records.
“The Loco-Motion” remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages. Its infectious energy, catchy melody, and iconic dance moves have ensured its place in music history.
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, whoaNow 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 meYay, 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)