About the song
“Walk Like a Man” is a timeless classic that has been etched in the annals of music history since its release in 1963. Written by the dynamic duo of Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, this iconic song was originally recorded by the legendary vocal group, the Four Seasons. The song’s unique blend of counterpoint, featuring the rich bass voice of Nick Massi and the soaring falsetto of lead singer Frankie Valli, is a testament to the group’s innovative approach to harmonies and vocal arrangements.
The song’s success was nothing short of meteoric, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart on March 2, 1963, and staying there for a impressive three weeks. Additionally, “Walk Like a Man” also charted at number three on the R&B singles chart, a testament to the group’s crossover appeal. The song’s catchy cha cha beat and ultra-commercial arrangement by Charles Calello only added to its widespread popularity.
But what makes “Walk Like a Man” truly remarkable is the story behind its creation. The song was recorded during a particularly tense and dramatic session, with producer Bob Crewe insisting on capturing the perfect take despite the chaos that was unfolding around him. As the fire department received an emergency call from the Abbey Victoria Hotel, where the Stea-Phillips Recording Studios were located, smoke and water began to seep into the studio. Undeterred, Crewe continued recording until the firemen had to use their axes to break down the door and rescue him from the studio. This harrowing experience only added to the song’s legendary status, cementing its place as one of the most iconic and enduring songs of the 1960s.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the history and significance of “Walk Like a Man,” exploring its impact on the music industry and its enduring popularity over the years. We will also examine the song’s unique musical elements, including its innovative harmonies and arrangements, and its influence on future generations of musicians. So, let’s take a step back in time and revisit the magic of “Walk Like a Man,” a song that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
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Lyrics
Ooh-wee-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-wee
Walk, walk, walk, walk
Ooh-wee-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh
Walk like a man
Oh, how you tried to cut me down to size
Tellin’ dirty lies to my friends (ooh-ah, ooh-ah, ooh-ah, ooh)
But my own father said give her up, don’t bother
The world isn’t comin’ to an end
(He said)
Walk like a man, talk like a man
Walk like a man, my son
No woman’s worth crawlin’ on the earth
So walk like a man, my son
Oh wee ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-wee-ooh
Walk, walk, walk, walk
Ooh-wee-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh
Bye, baby, I don’t-a mean maybe
Gonna get along somehow (ooh-ah, ooh-ah, ooh-ah, ooh)
Soon you’ll be cryin’ on account of all your lyin’
Oh yeah, just look who’s laughin’ now
(I’m gonna)
Walk like a man, fast as I can
Walk like a man from you
I’ll tell the world, forget about it, girl
And walk like a man from you
Ooh-wee-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-wee-ooh
Walk, walk, walk, walk
Ooh-wee-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh
Walk, walk, walk, walk
Walk, walk, walk, walk
Ooh-wee-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-wee-ooh