About The Song
“Yakety Yak” is a humorous and lively song by The Coasters, released in 1958. Known for its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, the song became a hit and remains a classic example of the doo-wop and rock and roll styles of the late 1950s.
Five facts about The Coasters’ “Yakety Yak”:
- Leiber and Stoller Collaboration: “Yakety Yak” was written by the prolific songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who were known for their contributions to rock and roll and R&B music. They also produced the song, contributing to its distinctive sound.
- Comedic Lyrics: The song’s lyrics convey a humorous message, depicting a conversation between a parent and a child. The parent admonishes the child for not doing household chores with the famous line “Yakety Yak, don’t talk back.” The comedic element contributed to the song’s widespread appeal.
- Chart Success: “Yakety Yak” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1958. It also topped the R&B chart, making it one of The Coasters’ most successful and enduring hits.
- Musical Style: The song features a lively and upbeat musical arrangement, characterized by its catchy saxophone riff. The use of saxophone and other brass instruments contributes to the overall energetic and playful atmosphere of the track.
- Cultural Impact: “Yakety Yak” has left a lasting impact on popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a classic and recognizable song from the late 1950s rock and roll era.
Video
Lyrics
Take out the papers and the trash
Or you don’t get no spendin’ cash
If you don’t scrub that kitchen floor
You ain’t gonna rock and roll no more
Yakety yak (don’t talk back)Just finish cleanin’ up your room
Let’s see that dust fly with that broom
Get all that garbage out of sight
Or you don’t go out Friday night
Yakety yak (Don’t talk back)You just put on your coat and hat
And walk yourself to the laundromat
And when you finish doin’ that
Bring in the dog and put out the cat
Yakety yak (Don’t talk back)Don’t you give me no dirty looks
Your father’s hip, he knows what cooks
Just tell your hoodlum friend outside
You ain’t got time to take a ride
Yakety yak (Don’t talk back)Yakety yak, yakety yak
Yakety yak, yakety yak
Yakety yak, yakety yak…
