About the song
“All Night Long (All Night)” by Lionel Richie is a vibrant and enduring classic from his second solo album, *Can’t Slow Down* (1983). Combining Richie’s signature Commodores style with infectious Caribbean influences, the song quickly became a global sensation, topping multiple Billboard charts including pop, R&B, and adult contemporary.
Richie’s approach to the song was innovative, blending English lyrics seamlessly with playful, nonsensical “African” phrases like “Tam bo li de say de moi ya” and “Jambo jumbo,” which he admitted were essentially gibberish. This whimsical touch added to the song’s charm and Richie described it as a humorous improvisation born out of logistical constraints during its creation.
Critically acclaimed for its infectious energy and musical complexity, “All Night Long (All Night)” received high praise from reviewers. Cash Box lauded Richie’s mastery of diverse musical elements and his ability to seamlessly navigate melodic shifts, highlighting the song’s universal appeal and danceable rhythms that captivated listeners of all ages.
Accompanying the song was a visually captivating music video produced by Michael Nesmith and directed by Bob Rafelson, known for their pioneering work in music video production. This video not only complemented the song’s celebratory vibe but also enhanced its cultural impact through visual storytelling.
Beyond its chart-topping success and critical acclaim, “All Night Long (All Night)” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Lionel Richie’s memorable performance at the closing ceremonies of the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles solidified its status as an anthem of joy and festivity. The song’s inclusion in the pilot episode of *Miami Vice* and its feature in the 1997 sci-fi film *The Fifth Element* further underscored its enduring relevance and versatility across different media and genres.
Over the years, “All Night Long (All Night)” has continued to resonate with audiences worldwide, evidenced by its recent appearance in advertisements for Mattress Firm in 2024. Lionel Richie’s live performances of the song at prestigious events like the Nobel Peace Prize celebration in 2006 have further cemented its legacy as a timeless classic that embodies the spirit of celebration and unity.
As a testament to its enduring popularity, “All Night Long (All Night)” remains a cherished favorite that continues to bring people together on dance floors and in cultural moments, reminding us of the power of music to uplift and inspire across generations.
Video
Lyrics
Da Da, ooooh
Well, my friends, the time has come
To raise the roof and have some fun
Throw away the work to be done
Let the music play on (play on, play on, play on…)
Everybody sing, everybody dance
Lose yourself in wild romance
We’re going to Party, Karamu, Fiesta, forever
Come on and sing along!
We’re going to Party, Karamu, Fiesta, forever
Come on and sing along!
All night long (all night), All night (all night)
All night long (all night), All night (all night)
All night long (all night), All night (all night)
All night long! (all night), Ooh, yeah (all night)
People dancing all in the street
See the rhythm all in their feet
Life is good, wild and sweet
Let the music play on…(Play on, play on, play on…)
Feel it in your heart and feel it in your soul
Let the music take control
We’re going to Party, Liming, Fiesta, forever
Come on and sing along
We’re going to Party, Liming, Fiesta, forever
Come on and sing my song!
All night long (all night), oooh, (all night)
All night long (all night), yeaz, (all night)
All night long (all night), yeah, (all night)
All night long (all night)…(all night)
Yeah, once you get started you can’t sit down
Come join the fun, it’s a merry-go-round
Everyone’s dancing their troubles away
Come join our party, See how we play!
Come on! Come on!
Everybody dance like Jimmy
Come on!
Tam bo li de say de moi ya
Hey Jambo Jumbo
Way to parti o we goin’
Oh, jambali
Tam bo li de say de moi ya
Yeah, Jambo, jumbo
Oh, O, O, O, yes
We’re going to have a party! (Yeah… ugh)
All night long (all night), All night, (all night)
All night long (all night), All night, (all night)
All night long (all night), All night, (all night)
All night long (all night)…
Everyone you meet (all night)
They’re jamming in the street (all night)
All night long! (All night)
Everyone you meet (all night)
They’re jamming in the street (all night)
All night long! (All night)
Everybody come on!
Feel good! Feel good!
Come on!
Come on!
Sing about here, everybody!
All night long (all night), All night, (all night)
All night long (all night), All night, (all night)
Come on now
All night long (all night), All night, (all night)