About The Song
“Bird Dog” by The Everly Brothers is a classic rock and roll song released in 1958. Known for its catchy melody, harmonious vocals, and upbeat rhythm, the song exemplifies the signature sound of the Everly Brothers during the late 1950s.
Facts:
- Songwriting Credits: “Bird Dog” was written by Boudleaux Bryant, who, along with his wife Felice, wrote many of The Everly Brothers’ early hits. The Bryants were a prolific songwriting duo responsible for crafting numerous classic songs for various artists.
- Harmonies: One of the defining features of The Everly Brothers’ sound is their seamless vocal harmonies. “Bird Dog” showcases the duo’s ability to blend their voices in a way that became influential in the development of rock and pop music.
- Double A-Side Single: “Bird Dog” was released as a double A-side single along with “Devoted to You.” Both songs became hits, with “Bird Dog” reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The dual success of the single highlighted the versatility of The Everly Brothers’ musical style.
- Teenage Themes: Like many songs of the era, “Bird Dog” explores teenage themes and romantic relationships. The lyrics tell the story of a young man warning his friend about a girl who’s a “bird dog” and may be trouble in matters of the heart.
- Chart Success: “Bird Dog” was a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. The Everly Brothers’ ability to craft catchy, relatable songs with tight harmonies contributed to their enduring popularity during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Video
Lyrics
Johnny is a joker (He’s a bird)
A very funny joker (He’s a bird)
But when he jokes my honey (He’s a dog)
His jokin’ ain’t so funny (What a dog)
Johnny is a joker that’s a-tryin’ to steal my baby (He’s a bird dog)Johnny sings a love song (Like a bird)
Sings the sweetest love song (Ya ever heard)
But when he sings to my gal (What a howl)
To me he’s just a wolf dog (On the prowl)
Johnny wants to fly away and puppy-love my baby (He’s a bird dog)Hey, bird dog, get away from my quail
Hey, bird dog, you’re on the wrong trail
Bird dog, you better leave my lovey-dove alone
Hey, bird dog, get away from my chick
Hey, bird dog, you better get away quick
Bird dog, you better find a Chicken Little of your ownJohnny kissed the teacher (He’s a bird)
He tiptoed up to reach her (He’s a bird)
Well he’s a teacher’s pet now (He’s a dog)
Well he wants he can get now (What a dog)
He even made the teacher let him sit next to my baby (He’s a bird dog)Hey, bird dog, get away from my quail
Hey, bird dog, you’re on the wrong trail
Bird dog, you better leave my lovey-dove alone
Hey, bird dog, get away from my chick
Hey, bird dog, you better get away quick
Bird dog, you better find a Chicken Little of your own
(He’s a bird)