About the song
“Twistin’ the Night Away” is a vibrant and timeless track by the iconic Sam Cooke, recorded on December 18, 1961, and released as a single in 1962. This lively song quickly captured the essence of the early 1960s dance craze, achieving significant success across various music charts. It not only soared to number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 but also clinched the top spot on Billboard’s R&B chart, underscoring Cooke’s remarkable versatility and broad appeal. Internationally, the song resonated with audiences, reaching number 6 on the UK Singles Chart, further solidifying its place in the global music scene.
The song’s infectious rhythm and joyful spirit are complemented by the exceptional musicianship of The Wrecking Crew, a group of session players renowned for their contributions to numerous classic recordings. Led by Rene Hall, the crew featured Red Callender on bass, Earl Palmer on drums, and the dynamic guitar work of Tommy Tedesco and Clifton White. The rich sound is further enhanced by Ed Beal on piano, with a brass and saxophone section that includes John Kelson, John Ewing, Jewell Grant, and Stuart Williamson. This collaboration produced a track that remains a quintessential representation of its era’s dance music.
“Twistin’ the Night Away” has transcended its original release, finding a lasting place in popular culture. It was featured in the 1978 classic film *Animal House*, the 1987 sci-fi comedy *Innerspace*, and the 2011 action film *The Green Hornet*. Its influence extends beyond movies, inspiring the title of The Shins’ third album, *Wincing the Night Away*, and appearing in a dance sequence in the TV series *Umbrella Academy*. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to Sam Cooke’s incredible talent and the song’s infectious energy, making it a timeless classic that continues to delight audiences and inspire artists across generations.
Video
Lyrics
Let me tell you ’bout a place
Somewhere up-a New York way
Where the people are so gay
Twistin’ the night away
Here they have a lot of fun
Puttin’ trouble on the run
Man, you find the old and young
Twistin’ the night away
They’re twistin’, twistin’
Everybody’s feelin’ great
They’re twistin’, twistin’
They’re twistin’ the night away
Here’s a man in evening clothes
How he got here, I don’t know, but
Man, you oughta see him go
Twistin’ the night away
He’s dancin’ with a chick in slacks
She’s movin’ up and back
Oh, man, there ain’t nothin’ like
Twistin’ the night away
They’re twistin’, twistin’
Everybody’s feelin’ great
They’re twistin’, twistin’
They’re twistin’ the night
Let’s twist a while
Lean up
Lean back
Lean up
Lean back
Watusi
Now fly
Now twist
They’re twistin’ the night away
Here’s a fella in blue jeans
Dancin’ with an older queen
Who’s dolled up in her diamond rings and
Twistin’ the night away
Man, you oughta see her go
Twistin’ to the rock and roll
Here you find the young and old
Twistin’ the night away
They’re twistin’, twistin’, man
Everybody’s feelin’ great
They’re twistin’, twistin’
They’re twistin’ the night
One more time
Lean up
Lean back
Lean up
Lean back
Watusi
Now fly
Now twist