About the Song
In the vibrant tapestry of 1960s rock and roll, Chubby Checker’s “Pony Time” stands out as a foot-stomping, body-shaking anthem that celebrates the uninhibited joy of dance. Released in 1961, this high-octane number became an instant hit, further solidifying Checker’s reputation as a master of infectious dance crazes.
“Pony Time” explodes from the speakers with a driving rhythm section and a searing saxophone line. Checker’s signature vocals, brimming with playful swagger, take center stage as he declares: “Well, it’s a brand new song / And you know just what I’m here to do all night long.” The energy is palpable, urging the listener to abandon inhibitions and embrace the groove.
The song’s brilliance lies in its simplicity. The lyrics, laced with playful double entendres (“You can pony in your birthday suit / But keep those dancin’ shoes on your feet”), perfectly capture the lighthearted spirit of rock and roll. However, beneath the surface lies a deeper current – a sense of self-expression and individuality. “Pony Time” becomes more than just a dance craze; it’s a call to break free from societal constraints and embrace your own unique style.
“Pony Time” wasn’t just a chart-topping single; it was a cultural phenomenon. Checker’s electrifying live performances, fueled by his energetic dance moves and suggestive winks, sent shockwaves through the conservative society of the time. But for young audiences, it was a revelation. The song became an anthem, a battle cry for a generation yearning to break free and express themselves through uninhibited dance.
The legacy of “Pony Time” is undeniable. This infectious rock and roll number continues to inspire musicians across genres. It serves as a reminder of Chubby Checker’s groundbreaking artistry and his ability to create music that transcended generations. More than just a song about a dance, “Pony Time” is a timeless snapshot of a cultural revolution, a testament to the power of rock and roll to ignite rebellion and celebrate the freedom of self-expression.
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Lyrics: “Pony Time”
It’s pony time, get up
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)Hey now everybody
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
In the union hall
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
It’s pony time
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
When ya hear this call
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)So get with it
Don’t quit it
Get up
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)Do the pony with your partner
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
With a big boss line
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
Well anyway ya do it
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
You’re gonna look real fine
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)So get with it
Don’t quit it
Get up
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)Now ya turn to the left when I say gee
You turn to the right when I say haw
Now gee, ya ya baby
Now haw
Oh baby, oh baby, pretty baby
Do it baby, oh baby, oh baby
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)Gonna see little Suzie
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
You know she lives next door
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
She’s doin’ the pony
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
She’s takin’ the floor
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)Eeea ah, so get with it
Don’t quit it
Come on
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)Do the pony with your partner
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
Oh in a big boss line
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
But anyway you do it
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)
You’re gonna look just fine
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)So get with
Don’t quit it
Get up. EeeaaahNow you turn to the left when I say gee
You turn to the right when I say haw
Now gee, ya ya little baby
Now haw, ya
Oh baby, oh baby, pretty baby
Do it baby, oh baby, oh baby
(Boogety, boogety, boogety, boogety shoo)