About the song
In the early 1960s, the music scene was abuzz with the emergence of new genres, styles, and artists. Among the many talented musicians of this era, one name stands out for her energetic and infectious sound: Little Eva. Born Eva Boyd on June 29, 1943, in Belhaven, North Carolina, Eva was a young singer who rose to fame with her debut single, “The Loco-Motion,” released in 1962. This iconic song, written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, has become a staple of the 1960s pop culture, captivating audiences with its catchy melody, simple yet effective lyrics, and Eva’s signature energetic vocals.
“The Loco-Motion” was a game-changer in the music industry, marking a significant departure from the traditional pop music of the time. The song’s unique blend of rock and roll, doo-wop, and girl-group harmonies created a fresh and exciting sound that resonated with listeners of all ages. The song’s success was not limited to the United States; it also gained popularity in the UK, Australia, and other parts of the world, cementing Little Eva’s status as a global pop sensation.
The song’s lyrics, penned by the legendary songwriting duo Carole King and Gerry Goffin, are a testament to the duo’s ability to craft catchy and memorable melodies. The song’s chorus, with its repetitive and easy-to-remember phrase “Come on, baby, do the Loco-Motion,” became a cultural phenomenon, with fans of all ages dancing and singing along to the tune. The song’s simplicity and accessibility made it a favorite among children and adults alike, transcending generational boundaries and cultural divides.
Little Eva’s performance of “The Loco-Motion” was equally impressive, showcasing her impressive vocal range and energetic stage presence. Her distinctive voice, with its sweet and youthful tone, added a layer of authenticity to the song, making it feel more like a personal expression than a manufactured pop hit. The song’s music video, featuring Eva dancing and singing in a colorful and lively setting, further solidified its appeal, making it a staple of early music television.
In conclusion, “The Loco-Motion” by Little Eva is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Its infectious melody, simple yet effective lyrics, and Eva’s energetic vocals have made it a beloved song of the 1960s, a decade that was marked by significant cultural and social change. As a testament to the enduring power of music, “The Loco-Motion” remains a cherished memory for many, a reminder of the joy and excitement of the early days of rock and roll.
Video
Lyrics
Everybody’s doin’ a brand-new dance, now
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
I know you’ll get to like it if you give it a chance now
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
My little baby sister can do it with me
It’s easier than learning your A-be -see’s
So come on, come on, do the Loco-motion with me
You gotta swing your hips, now. Come on, baby
Jump up. Jump back. Well, now, I think you’ve got the knack
Now that you can do it, let’s make a chain, now
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
A chug-a chug-a motion like a railroad train, now
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
Do it nice and easy, now, don’t lose control:
A little bit of rhythm and a lot of soul
So come on, come on, do the Loco-motion with me
Move around the floor in a Loco-motion
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
Do it holding hands if you get the notion
(Come on baby, do the Loco-motion)
There’s never been a dance that’s so easy to do
It even makes you happy when you’re feeling blue
So come on, come on, do the Loco-motion with me