About the song
“The Twist,” performed by the legendary Chubby Checker, is a song that revolutionized the dance floor and left an indelible mark on popular music history. Written by Hank Ballard, “The Twist” was originally released as a B-side by Ballard and the Midnighters in 1959. However, it wasn’t until Chubby Checker recorded his version in 1960 that the song truly took off, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon.
Checker’s rendition of “The Twist” was released as a single in July 1960 by Cameo-Parkway Records. It quickly captivated audiences with its simple yet infectious beat and easy-to-follow dance moves. The song first hit the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in August 1960, where it initially reached the number one spot on September 19, 1960. Remarkably, it re-entered the chart in late 1961 and climbed back to the top on January 13, 1962, making Chubby Checker the only artist to have the same song reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 twice in different years.
“The Twist” was more than just a hit song; it sparked a dance craze that swept across America and the world. Its influence extended beyond the music charts, permeating various aspects of popular culture. From teenagers at school dances to adults at nightclubs, everyone was twisting. The dance was simple enough for anyone to learn, yet dynamic and engaging, making it accessible and popular among all age groups.
Chubby Checker’s “The Twist” also enjoyed considerable success on other charts. It reached number one on the Cash Box chart and topped the charts in various countries, further cementing its international appeal. The song’s success led to a series of dance hits for Checker, who became synonymous with the Twist and other dance-oriented tracks.
The impact of “The Twist” was profound and far-reaching. It not only revitalized the dance scene but also influenced a wide range of subsequent musical styles and dance trends. The song’s legacy was honored in 2008 when it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing its significance and enduring appeal.
For those who lived through the era, “The Twist” evokes a sense of nostalgia and the joyous memories of a simpler time when music and dance brought people together. For newer generations, it offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in music history when a single song could inspire a global movement. Chubby Checker’s “The Twist” remains a timeless classic, a testament to the power of music to transcend generations and bring joy to millions.
Video
Lyrics
Come on, baby
Let’s do the twist
Come on, baby
Let’s do the twist
Take me by my little hand
And go like this
E-yah, twist
Baby, baby, twist
Ooh yeah, just like this
Come on, little miss
And do the twist
My daddy is sleepin’
And mama ain’t around
Yeah, daddy’s just sleepin’
And mama ain’t around
We’re gonna a-twist, a-twist, a-twistin’
‘Til we tear the house down
Come on and twist
Yeah, baby, twist
Ooh yeah, just like this
Come on, little miss
And do the twist
E-yah
Yeah, you should see my little sis
You should see my, my little sis
She really knows how to rock
She knows how to twist
Come on and twist
Yeah, baby, twist
Ooh yeah, just like this
Come on, little miss
And do the twist
Yeah
That’s all right
Yeah, twist all night
Twist
(‘Round and ’round and ’round)