About The Song
“Rockin’ Pneumonia & the Boogie Woogie Flu” is a lively rhythm and blues song recorded by Huey “Piano” Smith & The Clowns in 1957. The song is characterized by its infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and the distinctive piano playing of Huey Smith.
Five facts about Huey “Piano” Smith & The Clowns’ “Rockin’ Pneumonia & the Boogie Woogie Flu”:
- Infectious Rhythm: The song’s upbeat and infectious rhythm, driven by a boogie-woogie piano style, contributed to its popularity and enduring appeal. The combination of energetic piano playing and a lively horn section gives the song a dynamic and danceable quality.
- Piano Virtuosity: Huey Smith, also known as “Piano” Smith, was renowned for his piano virtuosity. His lively and skillful piano playing, as showcased in “Rockin’ Pneumonia & the Boogie Woogie Flu,” became a trademark of his musical style.
- Lyric Adaptations: The lyrics playfully describe the narrator’s ailment, attributing it to a fictional “Rockin’ Pneumonia” and the “Boogie Woogie Flu.” The song’s whimsical and humorous approach to illness contributed to its unique charm.
- Cultural Impact: “Rockin’ Pneumonia & the Boogie Woogie Flu” has left a lasting mark on popular culture. It has been covered by various artists and has been featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a classic in the R&B genre.
- Chart Success: The song achieved commercial success, reaching the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Huey “Piano” Smith & The Clowns’ most well-known hits. Its popularity extended beyond the R&B charts, demonstrating its broad appeal to diverse audiences.
Video
Lyrics
I wanna jump but I’m afraid I’ll fall
I wanna holler but the joint’s too small
Young man rhythm’s got a hold of me too
I got the rockin’ pneumonia and the boogie woogie fluWant some lovin’ babe and that ain’t all
I wanna kiss her but she’s way too tall
Young man rhythm’s got a hold of me too
I got the rockin’ pneumonia and the boogie woogie fluWanna squeeze her but I’m way too low
I would be runnin’ but my feets too slow
Young man rhythm’s got a hold of me too
I got the rockin’ pneumonia and the boogie woogie fluI wanna squeeze her but I’m way too low
I would be runnin’ but my feets too slow
Young man rhythm got a hold of me too
I got the rockin’ pneumonia and the boogie woogie fluBaby comin’ now I’m hurryin’ home
I know she’s leavin’ cause I’m takin’ too long
Young man rhythm’s got a hold of me too
I got the rockin’ pneumonia and the boogie woogie flu