About the song
The Dovells’ “Bristol Stomp” is a timeless anthem that captured the spirit of teenage dance crazes in the early 1960s. Emerging from the vibrant doo-wop scene of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this infectious tune quickly became a national sensation, leaving an enduring legacy in the annals of popular music.
Written by Kal Mann and Dave Appell, two industry veterans, “Bristol Stomp” was inspired by the energetic dance moves being showcased by teenagers at Good Will Hose Company dances in Bristol, a nearby suburb. The song’s title pays homage to this unique dance step, which was gaining popularity among the young crowd.
The Dovells, a talented doo-wop group with a strong local following, brought the song to life with their energetic vocals and tight harmonies. Produced and arranged by Appell, the track features a driving beat and a memorable melody that perfectly complements the exuberant nature of the dance.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the excitement and energy that characterized these teenage dance parties. The refrain, “The kids in Bristol are sharp as a pistol / When they do the Bristol Stomp,” captures the enthusiasm and skill of the young dancers. References to other popular dances of the time, like the “Pony” and the “Twist,” further emphasize the song’s connection to the era’s dance culture.
“Bristol Stomp” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the number two position on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1961. Its success was fueled by the song’s catchy melody, energetic performance, and the widespread popularity of the dance craze it celebrated. The track’s enduring appeal is evident in its continued popularity and its inclusion in various music compilations and playlists.
Today, “Bristol Stomp” remains a beloved classic that transports listeners back to a simpler time. Its infectious energy and timeless appeal have solidified its place in the hearts of music fans of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
The kids in bristol are sharp as a pistol
When they do the bristol stomp
Really somethin when they join in jumpin
When they do the bristol stomp
Whoa whoa they start spinnin every friday night
They dance the greatest and they do it right
Well its the latest its the greatest sight to see
The kids in bristol are sharp as a pistol
When they do the bristol stomp
Really somethin when they join in jumpin
When they do the bristol stomp
(whoa, oh, oh, ah-ah-ah, oh)
Whoa whoa it started in bristol at a dee jay hop
They hollered and whistled never wanted to stop
We pony and twisted and we rocked with daddy g
The kids in bristol are sharp as a pistol
When they do the bristol stomp
Really somethin when they join in jumpin
When they do the bristol stomp
Its got that groovy beat
That makes you stomp your feet
Come along and try
Gonna feel fine
And once you dance with me
Youll fall in love you see
The bristol stomp will make you mine
All mine
The stars are spinnin every friday night
They dance the greatest if they do it right
But its the latest its the greatest sight to see
The kids in bristol are sharp as a pistol
When they do the bristol stomp
Really somethin when they join in jumpin
When they do the bristol stomp
It started in bristol at a dee jay hop
They hollered and whistled
Never wanted to stop
We pony and twisted
And we rocked with daddy g
The kids in bristol are sharp as a pistol
When they do the bristol stomp
Really somethin when they join in jumpin
When they do the bristol stomp
Feel so fine
Oh, got to say, please, mine
Im talkin (when they do the bristol stomp)
Mine baby (kids in bristol…)