Shaking is an action often seen in popular culture, usually in the form of dancing.
Music is an integral part of this activity, with many songs centered around the idea of shaking.
This article will explore fifteen of the best songs about shaking, featuring music from various genres and eras.
These songs span from the 1950s to the present day, ranging from classic hits such as Bill Haley and His Comets’ “Shake, Rattle and Roll” to more recent releases such as Jason Derulo’s “Wiggle”.
Each song will be discussed in detail, and a brief analysis of the lyrics and musical elements will be provided.
This article will be a comprehensive exploration of the different ways that shaking has been represented in music.
1. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift‘s hit single “Shake It Off” is an infectious pop anthem that has become an international success.
The upbeat and catchy melody is accompanied by empowering lyrics, which encourage listeners to rise above negative criticism and “just shake it off”.
The message of the song is one of resilience and self-acceptance, and this has resonated with listeners worldwide.
The song has been praised for its ability to inspire and uplift, and it is no surprise that it has become one of the most successful releases of Swift’s career.
2. “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles
Widely regarded as a seminal recording of the rock era, “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles was released in 1963 as the opening track to their debut studio album, Please Please Me.
A perfect example of the band’s early sound, it features a lively combination of drums, guitars, and John Lennon’s signature harmonica.
The song’s infectious energy is highlighted by Lennon’s passionate vocals, which encourage listeners to join in and, as the title suggests, twist and shout.
It’s an iconic pop-rock song that has withstood the test of time and continues to be a fan favourite.
3. “Wiggle” by Jason Derulo
Released in 2014, “Wiggle” by Jason Derulo is a pop-rap song that fuses elements of hip-hop and dancehall.
The track features a catchy beat accompanied by a bouncy melody that encourages listeners to shake their bodies.
Derulo’s fast-paced and clever rhymes emphasize the excitement and energy of the song.
Additionally, the track’s repetitive chorus and infectious hook make it a fun and danceable song that encourages movement and celebration.
The song is a great addition to any party playlist and will get people up and moving.
4. “Shake, Rattle and Roll” by Bill Haley and His Comets
“Shake, Rattle and Roll” by Bill Haley and His Comets is a rock and roll anthem that has become an enduring classic.
It is noteworthy for its combination of musical styles, including elements of blues, country, and rhythm and blues.
The song’s lyrics are simple yet effective, focusing on the physical act of shaking.
The song’s upbeat tempo and cheerful tone make it an enjoyable and memorable listening experience.
It continues to be widely covered by many different artists and has become an iconic representation of rock and roll music.
5. “Shake It Up” by The Cars
Featuring a driving beat and catchy synths, “Shake It Up” by The Cars became an instant hit upon its 1981 release.
The Cars’ sound has been described as a combination of punk, new wave, classic rock, and early synth-pop.
The lyrics of the song have been interpreted as being about the need for change and the joy of embracing it.
The song is also notable for its use of a vocoder during the chorus.
This combination of sounds and lyrical themes makes “Shake It Up” an ideal song to dance to and an anthem of embracing change.
6. “Moneymaker” by Ludacris
Produced by Lil Jon, “Moneymaker” by Ludacris is a hip-hop track that is characterized by its hard-hitting beats and catchy lyrics.
The song’s upbeat tempo and bold production create a sense of urgency and energy.
Its lyrics reference shaking and the pursuit of money, making it an ideal choice for a song about shaking that also has a deeper, underlying message.
The song also features Ludacris’s unique vocal flow, making it stand out from other hip-hop tracks.
All in all, “Moneymaker” is an effective and powerful song about shaking.
7. “Hey Ya!” by Outkast
Award-winning hip-hop duo Outkast released their 2003 single, “Hey Ya!”, to critical acclaim.
With its infectious chorus and fast-paced, upbeat tempo, the song successfully captures the energy of shaking loose, freeing oneself of the doubts and worries that weigh us down.
The song lyrics speak of taking a leap of faith and daring to find joy in the unknown.
It’s a reminder to take a chance and shake loose of the things that keep us stuck in the same place.
Outkast’s ‘Hey Ya!’ is an anthemic song that encourages us to keep shaking and keep moving forward.
8. “Milkshake” by Kelis
Kelis’ “Milkshake” is a pop song that gained international recognition for its catchy hook and up-tempo beat.
The song was written by The Neptunes and produced by Pharrell Williams.
Its lyrics focus on the narrator’s self-confidence and her appeal to potential partners.
Musically, it is characterized by its use of a funk-oriented bassline and a danceable chorus.
Its memorable hook has been sampled and covered by numerous artists, further contributing to its success.
Ultimately, “Milkshake” is an iconic pop anthem that celebrates female empowerment and self-confidence.
9. “I’m Shakin'” by Jack White
Jack White’s single “I’m Shakin” is a blues-rock song that pays homage to the traditional Memphis R&B style.
The instrumental arrangement is driven by a pounding beat, punchy brass riffs, and a distorted guitar solo, creating an energetic musical backdrop for the song.
Its lyrics are a playful homage to the original R&B style, with a catchy chorus that builds on the phrase ”I’m shakin”’.
White’s vocal performance is soulful and passionate, adding a unique flavour to the song.
Overall, “I’m Shakin'” is an infectious, foot-stomping tune that captures the spirit of traditional Memphis R&B.
10. “All Shook Up” by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley’s legendary 1957 single “All Shook Up” is an upbeat rock and roll song that pays homage to traditional African-American music.
It features Presley’s signature sound, characterized by a combination of strong rhythm and catchy lyrics.
The song is known for its use of syncopation, a rhythmic technique that emphasizes the off-beat notes, as well as its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus.
Additionally, the song features a strong backbeat and the use of musical instruments such as the guitar and drums.
As a result of its upbeat rhythm and memorable lyrics, “All Shook Up” is considered by many to be one of Presley’s most enduring and popular songs.
11. “You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC
Transitioning from Elvis Presley’s classic hit “All Shook Up”, AC/DC‘s “You Shook Me All Night Long” is another rock song that captures the essence of being ‘shook up’.
This hit song has a catchy and strong rhythm that drives the song, with a memorable guitar solo at the end.
The beat is distinctive and the melodic vocal lines become instantly recognizable.
The song is an anthem for the band, and a classic rock hit that has endured the test of time.
12. “The Shake” by Neal McCoy
Released in 1997, Neal McCoy’s “The Shake” is a country rock song that captures the essence of a classic shake.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is trying to express his happiness but doesn’t know how.
He finds himself using a ‘shaking’ dance move to express himself.
The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a great choice for any upbeat party.
The lyrics also have a deeper meaning, as it speaks to the power of joy and self-expression.
Through its catchy melodies and meaningful lyrics, “The Shake” is a great song to add to any playlist.
13. “Shake the Sugar Tree” by Pam Tillis
Pam Tillis’ “Shake the Sugar Tree” is a country song that revels in the liberation of shaking off life’s troubles.
It serves as an anthem celebrating freedom from the burdens of life, with Tillis’ heartwarming voice and joyful lyrics.
The song’s instrumentation is light, featuring a prominent lead guitar and a steady bass line, creating a breezy soundscape.
The chorus is a catchy repetition of the title phrase, with an uplifting feel that encourages listeners to shake off their troubles.
It is a positive reminder that life is full of joy and that it’s important to appreciate the little things.
14. “Shakedown” by Bob Seger
Bob Seger’s “Shakedown” is a hard-driving rock song that captures the energy of a high-intensity street dance.
Its pulsing beat, electric guitar riffs, and brooding lyrics evoke a sense of urgency and intensity.
Seger’s signature raspy vocals draw attention to the themes of the song, which include a warning against the dangers of dancing too hard, but also the thrill of the experience.
The song’s use of sound and instrumentation makes it a perfect choice for a high-energy night out.
15. “Shake Your Groove Thing” by Peaches & Herb
Peaches & Herb’s “Shake Your Groove Thing” is an infectious disco anthem that conveys the joy of dancing.
With an upbeat, energetic beat, and a catchy bassline, this song is sure to get your feet tapping.
The lyrics are also filled with a sense of fun and liberation, encouraging listeners to forget their worries and let loose.
The song has gone on to become a classic not only of the disco era but of pop music as a whole, and its influence can still be felt in modern dance music.
Best Songs About Shaking – Final Thoughts
Shaking is a great way to express oneself, whether through dance or simply as a form of relief.
Music is an excellent accompaniment to this activity, with a wide range of songs that capture the joy and energy of shaking.
Songs like Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off”, The Beatles’ “Twist and Shout”, and Jason Derulo’s “Wiggle” all capture this feeling of joyous release.
Other songs like The Cars’ “Shake It Up” and Pam Tillis’ “Shake the Sugar Tree” offer up a more laid-back groove that encourages listeners to shake without limits.
Meanwhile, Bob Seger’s “Shakedown” and Peaches & Herb’s “Shake Your Groove Thing” provide a more upbeat and energetic soundtrack to get listeners moving.
Whatever the style, these 15 best songs about shaking provide a great way to enjoy movement and music.
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