About the Song
Johnny Tillotson’s “Poetry in Motion” isn’t your typical rock and roll anthem. Released in 1960, this smooth and melodic ballad takes a gentler approach, celebrating the captivating grace of a woman in love. While Tillotson is known for his versatile vocals and relatable lyrics, “Poetry in Motion” showcases a different side of the artist, one filled with admiration and a touch of romanticism.
The song opens with a captivating image: “The way you walk, the way you talk.” These simple lines immediately set the stage for a song that focuses on the subtle yet powerful ways a woman can capture a man’s heart. Tillotson’s vocals are smooth and sincere, perfectly conveying the awe and admiration he feels towards his muse.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of femininity in motion. Lines like “The way you smile, the way you move” and “You’re poetry in motion, every step you take” highlight the captivating grace and elegance that Tillotson finds irresistible. The song doesn’t delve into explicit declarations of love; instead, it celebrates the beauty and charm that radiate from a woman in love.
“Poetry in Motion” is more than just a love song; it’s a testament to the power of observation and appreciation. The song encourages the listener to slow down and appreciate the beauty in everyday moments, particularly the way a woman carries herself with confidence and grace.
The melody, with its gentle sway and lush string arrangements, perfectly complements the romantic theme. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, allowing Tillotson’s vocals to take center stage and transport the listener into a world of admiration and adoration.
“Poetry in Motion” became a major hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US and topping the charts in the UK. Its enduring appeal lies in its celebration of a timeless theme – the captivating beauty of a woman in love. While rock and roll reveled in youthful rebellion, “Poetry in Motion” offered a gentler counterpoint, a song filled with respect and genuine appreciation for the beauty found in everyday moments. It remains a classic, a testament to Tillotson’s storytelling ability and his skill in capturing universal emotions with simple yet evocative lyrics.
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Lyrics: “Poetry In Motion”
When I see my baby, what do I see
Poetry, poetry in motionPoetry in motion, walkin’ by my side
Her lovely locomotion keeps my eyes open wide
Poetry in motion, see her gentle sway
A wave out on the ocean could never move that wayI love every movement
There’s nothing I would change
She doesn’t need improvement
She’s much too nice to rearrangePoetry in motion, dancing close to me
A flower of devotion a-swaying gracefullyOh, a-whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
A-whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
A-whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
WhoaPoetry in motion, see her gentle sway
A wave out on the ocean could never move that wayI love every movement
There’s nothing I would change
She doesn’t need improvement
She’s much too nice to rearrangePoetry in motion, all that I adore
No number nine love potion could make me love her moreOh, a-whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
A-whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
A-whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
A-whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa