About the song
## Grand Funk Railroad’s Locomotion: A Classic Rock Anthem
Grand Funk Railroad’s “The Locomotion” is a classic rock anthem that has stood the test of time. Released in 1971 as the lead single from their self-titled debut album, the song quickly became a hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its infectious melody and energetic performance have made it a staple of rock radio stations for decades.
The song’s title is a reference to the popular dance craze of the same name that swept the nation in the 1960s. However, Grand Funk Railroad’s interpretation of the song is more than just a nostalgic nod to the past. The band infuses the track with their signature hard rock sound, creating a powerful and exhilarating listening experience.
The opening riff is a driving, blues-based guitar line that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. The rhythm section, consisting of bassist Mel Schacher and drummer Don Brewer, provides a solid foundation for the song, with Brewer’s powerful drumming driving the tempo forward. The song’s chorus is a catchy and sing-along-able melody that features Mark Farner’s distinctive vocals. Farner’s voice is raw and powerful, with a hint of grit that adds to the song’s intensity.
The lyrics of “The Locomotion” are simple and straightforward, but they are effective in conveying the song’s message of energy and excitement. The song celebrates the joy of dancing and the power of music to bring people together. The lyrics also evoke a sense of nostalgia for the carefree days of youth.
“The Locomotion” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its infectious melody, energetic performance, and powerful message have made it a beloved song that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
Video
Lyrics
Everybody’s doing 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-B-C
So come on, come on, do the Loco-motion with me
You gotta swing your hips, now
Come on
Jump up
Jump back
Well, now, I think you’ve got the knack
Wow, wow
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
Come on, come on
And 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
So come on, come on and do the Loco-motion with me
(Come on baby, do the loco-motion)
So come on, come on and do the Loco-motion with me
(Come on baby, do the loco-motion)
(Come on baby, do the loco-motion)
(Come on baby, do the loco-motion)
(Come on baby, do the loco-motion)
(Come on baby, do the loco-motion)