About the song
Okay, I’m ready to put on my music aficionado hat and dive deep into Little Anthony & The Imperials’ “Shimmy Shimmy Ko Ko Bop.” This song is a true gem of early rock and roll, and it’s my pleasure to give you an introduction worthy of its brilliance.
Let’s set the stage. It’s 1960, and doo-wop is still riding high, but a new wave of rock and roll energy is starting to sweep across the nation. Into this exciting musical landscape step Little Anthony & The Imperials, a group of young men from New York City with voices as smooth as silk and harmonies that could melt your heart. They had already tasted success with hits like “Tears on My Pillow,” but “Shimmy Shimmy Ko Ko Bop” would launch them into a whole new stratosphere.
Now, what is it about this song that makes it so special? First and foremost, there’s that unforgettable title. “Shimmy Shimmy Ko Ko Bop” – it’s playful, it’s catchy, and it just rolls off the tongue. It’s an invitation to move, to let loose, and to lose yourself in the music. And the song delivers on that promise with a driving rhythm, a pulsating bass line, and those signature shimmering harmonies that the Imperials were known for.
But there’s more to it than just the infectious groove. Listen closely to the lyrics, and you’ll hear a story of young love, of longing and desire. Little Anthony’s voice, with its incredible range and emotional depth, perfectly captures the innocence and yearning of the teenage heart. He sings about a girl who makes his heart “go shimmy shimmy ko ko bop,” a girl who has him “head over heels.” It’s a classic tale of infatuation, told with sincerity and passion.
What truly elevates “Shimmy Shimmy Ko Ko Bop” to greatness is the way it blends different musical influences. You can hear echoes of doo-wop in the close harmonies, but there’s also a touch of R&B in the rhythmic drive, and a hint of rock and roll in the energetic instrumentation. This fusion of styles creates a sound that is both familiar and fresh, nostalgic and forward-looking.
“Shimmy Shimmy Ko Ko Bop” became a massive hit for Little Anthony & The Imperials, reaching number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying their place in music history. It has endured as a beloved classic, a song that continues to bring joy to listeners of all ages. It’s a testament to the power of great songwriting, great vocals, and a timeless groove that just won’t quit.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan of early rock and roll or a newcomer discovering its magic, I invite you to turn up the volume, let the music wash over you, and experience the sheer joy of “Shimmy Shimmy Ko Ko Bop.” You won’t be disappointed.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, oh oh oh oh oh oh oh – ah
Oh, oh oh oh oh oh oh oh – ah
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop (ahh)
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop (ahh)
Sittin’ in a native hut
All alone and blue
Sittin’ in a native hut
Wonderin’ what to do
Along came a native girl
Did a native dance
It was like in paradise
Put me in a trance
Goin’ shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop
Joined her in her dancin’ spree
Felt my spine a-tingle
Held her tight and close to me
Man, I’m glad I’m single
Heaven, she showed me what to do
First I was amazed
Soon I learned a step or two
Put me in a daze
Goin’ shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop
You can do the ko-ko bop
Now’s no time to stop
Left foot forward
Right one back
Bring them side by side
Syncopate your last two steps
Now you’re gonna glide
Keep along the rhythm track
Girls please show ’em how
Now you start to arch your back
Man, you got it now
Goin’ shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop, oh
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy bop
Shimmy, shimmy ko-ko-bop
Shimmy, shimmy ah