About The Song
“Move It” is a classic rock and roll song by British singer Cliff Richard, released in 1958. The song is often considered one of the first authentic British rock and roll hits and played a significant role in shaping the early British rock music scene.
Five facts about “Move It”:
- Milestone in British Rock and Roll: “Move It” is often hailed as the first authentic British rock and roll song. Cliff Richard and his backing band, The Drifters (not to be confused with the American group of the same name), recorded the song in 1958, and its success marked a turning point in British popular music.
- Young Cliff Richard: At the time of recording “Move It,” Cliff Richard was just 17 years old. The youthful energy and charisma he brought to the song contributed to its widespread appeal among teenagers and helped establish him as a leading figure in the emerging British rock and roll scene.
- Chart Success: “Move It” was a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart. Its popularity extended beyond the UK, making an impact on the broader European and Australian music scenes.
- Influence on The Shadows: The Shadows, who served as Cliff Richard’s backing band, played a crucial role in the success of “Move It.” The instrumental break in the song showcased Hank Marvin’s distinctive guitar playing, foreshadowing The Shadows’ instrumental success in their own right.
- Enduring Legacy: “Move It” remains a pivotal song in the history of British rock and roll. It has been covered by various artists, and Cliff Richard himself has revisited the song multiple times throughout his career, underscoring its enduring popularity and significance.
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 itThe 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 dayHoney move it