When we think of the birth of rock ‘n’ roll in the United Kingdom, a few names inevitably come to mind, and one of the most significant is Sir Cliff Richard. In 1958, he introduced his debut single, “Move It,” a song that would not only define his career but also mark a crucial moment in the evolution of British rock music. The track, part of his album Cliff Richard, served as a bold declaration of his intent to push against the mainstream pop trends of the time. It captured the energy and rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll and solidified his place as one of the genre’s pioneers outside of the United States. In this blog review, we’ll explore the many facets of “Move It,” from its musical composition to its cultural impact, and why this particular piece of music has stood the test of time.
The Birth of “Move It” and Cliff Richard Album
“Move It” was released in August 1958, and it was instantly recognized as a landmark in the evolution of British rock ‘n’ roll. Written by Ian Samwell, a close collaborator of Cliff Richard, the song exudes the same kind of urgency, youthful energy, and rebellious spirit that made rock ‘n’ roll such a revolutionary force in the late 1950s. This single marked the beginning of a long and prosperous career for Richard, one that would span over six decades, but it is undoubtedly his introduction to a new generation of listeners hungry for something new.
The song was a part of Richard’s debut album Cliff Richard, which was released in the same year. Although the album contains several tracks, it is “Move It” that stands out as the most iconic. It is this track that truly defined Richard’s musical persona: a mix of charisma, energetic delivery, and a unique British twist on the American rock ‘n’ roll sound. When the song hit the charts, it not only signified a personal triumph for Richard but also for the British music scene as a whole, proving that the UK could produce rock ‘n’ roll stars on par with those in the United States, particularly the likes of Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry.
A Deep Dive Into the Sound and Instruments Used in “Move It”
One of the standout features of “Move It” is its infectious energy, which is brought to life through a powerful arrangement of instruments. The song features a stripped-back rock ‘n’ roll band lineup, with electric guitar, double bass, drums, and vocals at the forefront. This instrumentation, though relatively simple, is vital in conveying the raw excitement and dynamism that were hallmarks of the early rock genre.
The Guitar: Rock ‘n’ Roll’s Heartbeat
The electric guitar plays a central role in “Move It.” Played with a sense of urgency and sharpness, the riff that opens the track is immediately recognizable. The sound of the guitar in “Move It” is influenced heavily by American rock ‘n’ roll guitarists like Chuck Berry and Carl Perkins, yet it also reflects Richard’s own interpretation of the genre. The guitar line, with its crisp, bright tones, forms the backbone of the song, driving it forward at a relentless pace. The solo is also a key moment in the track, adding to its energy with quick, staccato notes that convey a sense of freedom and movement.
The simplicity of the guitar line is key to its effectiveness. There are no overly complicated solos or excessive flourishes; instead, the instrument serves as the perfect counterpart to Richard’s vibrant vocal delivery, providing a foundation that keeps the momentum of the song steady and engaging. The use of rhythm guitar to complement the lead lines creates a full, dynamic sound that captures the essence of early rock ‘n’ roll.
The Piano: A Subtle, Yet Vital Element
While the electric guitar dominates the track, the piano also plays an important, if less obvious, role in the song’s arrangement. The piano’s contribution is subtle yet vital, providing harmonic support and helping to establish the track’s rhythm. In many rock ‘n’ roll songs, the piano serves as a tool for adding richness and texture to the overall sound, and “Move It” is no exception.
In the background, the piano accompanies the guitar with simple, steady chords that add depth to the song’s arrangement. This, combined with the rhythmic bassline and pounding drums, gives the track a sense of fullness, making it feel bigger than it might have with just guitar and vocals. Though it’s not the primary instrument in the foreground, the piano is a crucial part of the song’s overall sonic landscape, helping to reinforce the energetic pulse of the song.
The Rhythm Section: Keeping the Beat Alive
The rhythm section—composed of bass and drums—also plays a key role in shaping the song’s sound. The drums are played with a quick tempo and punchy beats, contributing to the sense of urgency that “Move It” exudes. The syncopated rhythms in the drum fills are crucial in keeping the song driving forward, creating tension and release that energizes the listener. The bass, with its walking lines and steady pace, keeps the track grounded, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the instruments to build upon.
The interplay between the drums and bass provides the necessary propulsion for the song’s forward momentum. Together, they create a rhythmic pulse that mirrors the youthfulness and exuberance of the lyrics, making “Move It” a quintessential rock ‘n’ roll anthem. The rhythm section helps maintain the song’s pace and provides the necessary framework for the guitar and piano to shine.
The Impact and Legacy of “Move It”
“Move It” was not only a success for Cliff Richard but also an important song in the context of British pop and rock history. At the time of its release, British music was still heavily influenced by the sounds of big bands and crooners, but “Move It” brought a fresh, new energy to the scene. It was a direct challenge to the more traditional, refined pop music that was dominating the charts in the UK.
Cliff Richard’s confident performance, paired with the raw, energetic sound of the song, helped to introduce a new era of music in Britain. “Move It” became an early example of the British rock ‘n’ roll sound, influencing bands and artists who would later emerge, such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Shadows, who would go on to further define the genre. Richard’s innovative approach to merging American rock ‘n’ roll with a distinctly British sensibility would later inspire countless musicians.
Moreover, “Move It” helped establish Richard as a major pop star in the UK, allowing him to build a long and diverse career that spanned genres from rock ‘n’ roll to pop to gospel music. While he may be known today for his later hits like “Congratulations” and “Devil Woman,” it is important to remember that it was “Move It” that marked the beginning of his successful career in the spotlight.
Similar Songs for Further Exploration
For those who have enjoyed “Move It,” there are several other songs from the era and genre that offer a similar sense of youthful energy and excitement. Here are a few recommendations:
- The Shadows – “Apache”
This instrumental track, released in 1960, is a key example of the instrumental rock sound that emerged alongside British rock ‘n’ roll. The guitar work in “Apache” is legendary, with a twangy, surf-inspired tone that defined much of the genre in the years following “Move It.” - Buddy Holly – “That’ll Be the Day”
One of the seminal figures in early rock ‘n’ roll, Buddy Holly’s “That’ll Be the Day” shares the same energy and innovation as “Move It.” Holly’s influence on British rock is undeniable, and this track helped shape the musical landscape in both the United States and the UK. - Chuck Berry – “Johnny B. Goode”
If you’re looking for a direct American influence, Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode” is essential listening. The song’s iconic guitar riff and upbeat rhythm are echoed in Cliff Richard’s “Move It,” highlighting the transatlantic exchange that helped shape early rock music. - Eddie Cochran – “C’mon Everybody”
This high-energy track from Eddie Cochran is another great example of early rock ‘n’ roll that blends catchy melodies with youthful exuberance. The upbeat tempo and bold instrumentation will appeal to fans of “Move It.”
Conclusion
Cliff Richard’s “Move It” is more than just a song; it’s a statement of musical intent that helped define the British rock ‘n’ roll movement. The raw energy, infectious rhythm, and innovative instrumentation all come together to create a piece of music that resonates with listeners to this day. From its iconic guitar riffs to its infectious piano accompaniment and energetic rhythm section, the track remains a defining moment in Cliff Richard’s career and in the history of British music. For anyone interested in the origins of rock ‘n’ roll, Cliff Richard and “Move It” are essential listening.
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Lyrics
Come on pretty baby, let’s move it and groove itWell a shake-a baby shake, oh! honey please don’t lose it.It’s rhythm that “gets you” heart and soulLet me tell you baby; it’s called rock an’roll.They say, it’s gonna die: oh! honey bee let’s face it;They just don’t know what’s-a goin’ to replace it.Ballads’ and calypsos’, they’ve got nothing on realCountry music that drives along.Come one honey, move itWell, let’s moveWell, move itThe new second verse:Come on pretty baby let’s move it an’ a groove itDance honey dance baby please don’t lose it’cause’ all over town there’s a brand new beatAn’ it’s hangin’ in the air like the mississippi heatFireflies in the night an’ bullfrogs croakin’Well here comes the train an’ boy is she smokin’Headed out from new orleans ‘n’ clear to l.a.Ya’ better get ready it’s a brand new dayHoney move it