About the song
## Alley-Oop: A Timeless Classic by the Hollywood Argyles
The year was 1960, a time of innocence and optimism. The world was captivated by the space race, Elvis Presley was reigning supreme, and a new sound was emerging from the American Midwest. This sound, characterized by its infectious rhythms, catchy melodies, and upbeat energy, was known as “doo-wop.” One of the most iconic groups to emerge from this era was the Hollywood Argyles, and their signature song, “Alley-Oop,” remains a beloved classic to this day.
“Alley-Oop” is a quintessential doo-wop song, featuring a simple yet effective chord progression and a repetitive, rhythmic bassline. The lyrics, while seemingly nonsensical, are filled with playful wordplay and catchy phrases. The song’s title, “Alley-Oop,” is a reference to the prehistoric character Alley Oop, who was popular in comic strips at the time. This connection adds a touch of nostalgia and whimsy to the song.
The harmonies in “Alley-Oop” are particularly noteworthy. The Argyles’ vocal blend is tight and precise, with each member contributing to the overall sound. The falsetto harmonies, in particular, are a hallmark of the group’s style. These harmonies create a sense of joy and exuberance that is infectious.
The song’s arrangement is also noteworthy. The instrumentation is simple, consisting of guitars, bass, drums, and the occasional saxophone. However, the band’s ability to create a dynamic and engaging sound with such limited instrumentation is a testament to their skill. The bridge of the song, with its soaring vocal harmonies and energetic instrumental break, is particularly memorable.
“Alley-Oop” was a massive hit upon its release, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and positive message. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, and it continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
In conclusion, “Alley-Oop” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of the doo-wop era. It’s a song that is both fun and uplifting, and it’s sure to get your feet tapping. The Hollywood Argyles’ performance of the song is simply unforgettable, and it’s a must-listen for fans of classic pop music.
Video
Lyrics
(Oop-oop, oop, oop-oop)
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)There’s a man in the funny papers we all know
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
He lives way back a long time ago
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
He don’t eat nothin’ but a bear cat stew
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Well, this cat’s name is Alley-Oop
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)He got a chauffeur that’s a genuine dinosaur
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
And he can knuckle your head before you count to four
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)He got a big ugly club and a head full of hair
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Like great big lions and grizzly bears
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
(Alley-Oop) He’s the toughest man there is alive
(Alley-Oop) Wearin’ clothes from a wildcat’s hide
(Alley-Oop) He’s the king of the jungle jive
(Look at that cave man go!) (Scream!)He rides through the jungle, tearin’ limbs off of trees
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Knockin’ great big monsters dead on their knees
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
The cats don’t bug him ’cause they know better
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
‘Cause he’s a mean motor scooter and a bad go-getter
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
(Alley-Oop) He’s the toughest man there is alive
(Alley-Oop) Wears clothes from a wildcat’s hide
(Alley-Oop) He’s the king of the jungle jive
(Look at that cave man go!) (Scream!)There he goes
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Look at that cave man go
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
He sure is hip, ain’t he?
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Like what’s happening
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
He’s too much
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Ride, daddy, ride
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Hi-yo, dinosaur
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Ride, daddy, ride
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Get ’em, man
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)
Like hips ville
(Alley-Oop, oop, oop, oop-oop)