Cliff Richard’s “Move It” is often hailed as one of the pioneering tracks in the history of British rock ‘n’ roll, and for good reason. Released in 1958, “Move It” not only marked a significant milestone in Cliff Richard’s career but also carved out a pivotal moment in the landscape of British popular music. As a song that influenced generations of rock musicians, “Move It” remains a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners across the world today. With its infectious energy, catchy hooks, and electrifying instrumental arrangement, it’s no wonder this song continues to enjoy the status of a musical landmark.
In this review, we’ll explore the context behind the song’s creation, the instrumental makeup that drives its dynamic sound, and the lasting legacy of this remarkable track.
The Context: A Game-Changer in British Rock ‘n’ Roll
Before diving into the specifics of “Move It” as a piece of music, it’s important to understand the context surrounding its release. The song appeared on Cliff Richard’s debut single in 1958, a time when rock ‘n’ roll was exploding across the United States, thanks to artists like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard. While American acts were dominating the genre, the UK was still trying to find its own voice within the rock ‘n’ roll scene. Enter Cliff Richard, whose energetic style and powerful vocal delivery provided a distinct British take on the genre.
“Move It” was produced by Norrie Paramor, who helped shape the sound of Cliff Richard’s early career. The song was written by Richard’s long-time collaborator Ian Samwell, who crafted a piece of music that was inspired by the sounds of American rock ‘n’ roll but with a catchy, accessible edge that was uniquely British. When “Move It” was released in the fall of 1958, it quickly became a massive hit, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart, a rare achievement for a British rock ‘n’ roll song at the time. This single helped solidify Cliff Richard’s reputation as the “British Elvis” and laid the foundation for a career that would span decades and make him one of the most successful British artists of all time.
The Sound of “Move It”: Instruments, Vocals, and Arrangements
From a purely musical standpoint, “Move It” is a powerful piece of rock ‘n’ roll that blends energetic rhythms with sharp melodies. Let’s explore the key components that make this song such an iconic track in the genre.
Guitar
The backbone of “Move It” is undoubtedly the driving guitar riff, which propels the song forward with an undeniable sense of urgency. Played by the legendary guitarist Hank Marvin, this riff showcases the distinctive twang of the guitar that would come to define much of the early British rock scene. The use of reverb and sharp, crisp strumming gives the song a sharp, energetic edge, drawing clear inspiration from American rock ‘n’ roll but also infusing it with a distinctly British tone. Marvin’s guitar work is electric in both a literal and figurative sense—his precise technique and phrasing, coupled with the fast-paced tempo, make it impossible not to feel the excitement that the song conveys.
Piano
While the guitar is the primary driving force, the piano also plays a key role in shaping the song’s energetic vibe. The rhythm piano, played by Norman Percival, contributes a solid, upbeat foundation that complements the guitar’s lead lines. It’s not overbearing but serves as a necessary textural addition, adding both depth and swing to the arrangement. The piano’s contribution here is particularly effective in keeping the tempo steady and emphasizing the driving, toe-tapping rhythm that makes the song such a fun listen.
Drums and Bass
Supporting the melody, the rhythm section of the song is made up of a powerful drum beat and a steady bass line. The drums, played with rapid fills and energetic cymbal crashes, enhance the rock ‘n’ roll feel, giving the track its “kick” while keeping the pace fast and upbeat. The bass adds a sense of warmth and depth, providing the song with a solid foundation. The interplay between the drums, bass, and rhythm guitar creates a musical landscape that perfectly complements Cliff Richard’s vocal performance.
Vocals
Cliff Richard’s vocals on “Move It” are a clear highlight of the track. His voice exudes youthful energy, and he delivers each lyric with enthusiasm and confidence. It’s easy to hear why Richard became an icon; his vocal performance is both commanding and accessible, striking the perfect balance between exuberance and polish. Richard’s voice channels the rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll, but his delivery remains smooth and controlled, adding a sense of sophistication to the raw energy of the music. His ability to command the stage with just his voice, even from the outset of his career, is remarkable.
The Legacy of “Move It”
As we consider the lasting impact of “Move It,” it’s clear that the song was far more than just a hit in the late ’50s. It was a turning point in the evolution of British rock music. Before “Move It,” the UK’s music scene was largely dominated by jazz, skiffle, and pop. While Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry had enormous influence on music lovers and budding musicians alike, their sound hadn’t fully penetrated the British mainstream. “Move It” changed that.
The track is widely credited with being the first genuine British rock ‘n’ roll song—a term that came to define the genre of music that would eventually give rise to acts like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Kinks. Cliff Richard’s delivery, Hank Marvin’s groundbreaking guitar work, and the energetic rhythm section created a model that many British bands would follow in the years to come. “Move It” wasn’t just a successful single; it was the start of a cultural movement that would shape the landscape of popular music.
Moreover, “Move It” would lay the groundwork for Richard’s future successes, allowing him to build a career that spanned over 60 years. While he would eventually evolve into a more pop-oriented performer, the influence of rock ‘n’ roll remained a key part of his sound and stage presence throughout his career. His ability to maintain relevance for such a long period speaks to the timeless appeal of his early music.
Recommended Listening: Similar Songs to “Move It”
If you’ve enjoyed “Move It” and are looking for similar tracks that capture the spirit of early British rock ‘n’ roll, here are a few recommendations to consider:
- “Shakin’ All Over” by Johnny Kidd & The Pirates – Released in 1960, this track is a great example of how rock ‘n’ roll continued to evolve in the UK. Like “Move It,” “Shakin’ All Over” features a driving guitar riff and a compelling vocal performance. It’s a must-listen for fans of early rock.
- “Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley & His Comets – Though an American classic, this song was a key influence on the British rock scene. It shares the same high-energy tempo and rockabilly-inspired instrumentation that defined early rock ‘n’ roll.
- “Foot Tapper” by The Shadows – For those who love Hank Marvin’s guitar work, The Shadows—Cliff Richard’s backing band—produced several hits with their iconic instrumental sound. “Foot Tapper” is an upbeat and infectious instrumental track that highlights their unique musical chemistry.
- “Be-Bop-A-Lula” by Gene Vincent – Another key track in the rock ‘n’ roll era, Gene Vincent’s “Be-Bop-A-Lula” is as influential as it is catchy. With its simple but powerful riff and energetic vocals, it helped shape the direction of rock music in the late ’50s.
Conclusion
“Move It” by Cliff Richard is a pivotal piece of music that helped shape the future of British rock. With its electrifying guitar riff, rhythmic piano, and infectious energy, it is a prime example of the raw power that rock ‘n’ roll had when it first took hold. For anyone interested in the roots of British rock, this song is an essential listen, offering a glimpse into the genre’s early development and the immense talent that Cliff Richard would go on to showcase in the decades that followed.
As a track that both defined an era and established a career, “Move It” holds a special place in rock history, and its influence continues to be felt today.