About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Twistin' the Night Away" is a classic rhythm and blues song originally penned and performed by Sam Cooke in 1962. However, it was Rod Stewart's lively and energetic cover that brought a new level of enthusiasm and rock-infused flair to the track. Featured on his 1972 album "Never a Dull Moment," Stewart's rendition of "Twistin' the Night Away" pays homage to the original while injecting it with his distinctive style and charisma.
Rod Stewart, known for his raspy vocals and charismatic stage presence, was no stranger to reinterpreting classic songs. With "Twistin' the Night Away," Stewart took a beloved R&B dance tune and added his own rock and roll sensibility. The result was a dynamic and infectious rendition that captured the spirit of the original while giving it a fresh and vibrant twist.
Stewart's cover maintains the song's core elements, including its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and danceable rhythm. The arrangement features a blend of rock and R&B influences, showcasing Stewart's versatility as an artist. The track is characterized by its lively instrumentation, with Stewart's gravelly voice adding a touch of rawness and authenticity to the overall sound.
The lyrics of "Twistin' the Night Away" celebrate the joy of dancing and socializing, capturing the lively atmosphere of a night filled with music and movement. Stewart's exuberant delivery brings these lyrics to life, conveying a sense of enthusiasm and fun that invites listeners to join in the celebration. The infectious energy of the song makes it a timeless anthem for good times and carefree moments.
One of the standout elements of Stewart's version is the spirited vocal performance. His raspy, soulful voice adds a distinctive character to the song, infusing it with a sense of passion and authenticity. Stewart's vocal style, often associated with rock and blues, aligns seamlessly with the rhythmic and upbeat nature of "Twistin' the Night Away," creating a perfect synergy between artist and material.
In addition to Stewart's vocal prowess, the instrumental arrangement plays a crucial role in the success of the cover. The backing band contributes to the lively atmosphere, with energetic guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and well-placed horns that enhance the overall sound. The combination of these elements results in a track that is not only a homage to Sam Cooke's original but also a distinct and memorable rendition that stands on its own merit.
Stewart's cover of "Twistin' the Night Away" became a commercial success, earning praise for its infectious energy and contributing to the artist's reputation as a masterful interpreter of diverse musical styles. The track's popularity endured over the years, becoming a staple in Stewart's live performances and maintaining its status as a fan favorite.
In conclusion, Rod Stewart's rendition of "Twistin' the Night Away" is a testament to his ability to breathe new life into classic songs. By infusing the track with his rock-infused style and dynamic vocal delivery, Stewart created a version that pays homage to the original while adding his own charismatic touch. The result is a timeless and lively interpretation that continues to captivate audiences and keep the spirit of the song alive for new generations of listeners.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
Let me tell you about a place, somewhere up in 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
Oh man you'll find the old and young twistin' the night away
Here's a man in evening clothes, how he got here I don't know
But oh man, you ought to see him go, twistin' the night away
He's dancing with a chick in slacks, she's moving up and back
Oh man, there ain't nothing like twistin' the night away
Feel much better
Here's a fellow in blue jeans, who's dancing with an older queen
Dolled up in her diamond rings, twistin' the night away
Man you ought to see her go, twistin' to the rock and roll
Here you'll find the young and the old twistin' the night away
They're twistin', twistin', everybody's doing great
They're twistin' man, twistin', they're twistin' the night away
Twistin', you know they're twistin', twistin' the night away
They're twistin', twistin', man twistin' the night away
Here they have a lot of fun, puttin' trouble on the run
Oh man you'll find young and the old twistin' the night away
Here's a man in evening clothes, how he got here I don't know
I don't know but man you ought to see him go
Twistin' the night away