“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Dancin’, Shaggin’ on the Boulevard” by Alabama, released in 1997, is a lively track that transports listeners to the sun-soaked shores of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It’s more than just a song; it’s a nostalgic ode to the carefree dance-filled nights that marked Alabama’s formative years.
About The Composition
- Title: Dancin’, Shaggin’ on the Boulevard
- Composer: Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry, and Greg Fowler
- Premiere Date: June 23, 1997
- Album/Opus/Collection: Dancin’ on the Boulevard
- Genre: Country, Beach Music
Background
This song is a tribute to the Carolina Shag dance, reflecting Alabama’s early days performing in beachside clubs. The track captures the essence of the band’s musical roots and its connection to beach music, a genre deeply intertwined with the band’s history (Wikipedia).
Musical Style
“Dancin’, Shaggin’ on the Boulevard” features a blend of upbeat rhythms and smooth melodies characteristic of beach music. Its style is reminiscent of the relaxed, rhythmic dance steps of the Carolina Shag, a popular dance in the region during the 1940s, which is performed to this style of music (Wikipedia).
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and communal joy, focusing on themes of memory and celebration. They reflect the band’s reminiscences about their youthful experiences, creating an evocative story of music, dance, and the lively beach scene.
Performance History
Since its release, the song has enjoyed significant popularity, peaking at No. 3 on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. It remains a staple in Alabama’s repertoire, celebrated for its vibrant energy and connection to the band’s roots (Wikipedia).
Cultural Impact
The song not only pays homage to the Carolina Shag but also helped in keeping the dance and its associated culture alive in public memory. It’s often associated with beach parties and dance competitions, underscoring its lasting influence on the culture of the Southern United States (Wikipedia).
Legacy
“Dancin’, Shaggin’ on the Boulevard” has endured as a beloved classic in the beach music scene, continually drawing new listeners with its infectious charm and historical significance. It stands as a testament to Alabama’s impact on the musical and cultural landscape of the American South.
Conclusion
As a vibrant celebration of Southern culture and musical heritage, “Dancin’, Shaggin’ on the Boulevard” by Alabama offers an enriching experience that transcends its time. Its enduring popularity encourages both old and new generations to explore and appreciate the unique sounds of beach music and the joy of dance.
Video
Lyrics
Well, the magic attic’s where the music rolls
And the Army-Navy’s got ol’ Jackie Soul
Down on peaches corner there are good ol’ boys
And mother fletchers makin’ lots of noise
They’re dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Well, the tams are playin’ at the Port-O-Call
And the drifters underneath the boardwalk
At the Spanish Galleon and ol’ fat Jacks
Jukebox playin’ and the place is packed
You bet they’re dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
You know they’re dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Got the top down and the traffic’s slow
Sun fun weekend, we all go
Where the girls are sunnin’ and are lookin’ good
Well, I never met ’em but I wish I could
And we’d go dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
We’d go dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Well, the embers singin’ up on ocean drive
And the castaways are gettin’ loud tonight
At the electric circus they all getin’ down
And the Carousel’s spinnin’ round and round
See them dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
I see ’em dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Well, I’m hangin out down at sloppy Joes
They may doze but they never close
And the Bama boys at the bowery and
They can’t dance but they play for free
But they like dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
They know dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
They wrote dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Shaggin’ on the boulevard
Dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard
Dancin’, shaggin’ on the boulevard