About The Song
“Dancing in the Street” is a classic Motown song recorded by Martha Reeves & the Vandellas. Released in 1964, it became one of their signature hits and a timeless anthem of the 1960s. The song was written by Marvin Gaye, William “Mickey” Stevenson, and Ivy Jo Hunter. “Dancing in the Street” reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and became a top 10 hit in the UK as well.
Its catchy melody and lyrics celebrating the joy of dancing resonated with audiences, making it a staple of radio playlists and dance floors alike. The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of unity and freedom, inviting people from all walks of life to join together in dancing as a form of expression and liberation. It has been interpreted as a call to action, encouraging people to come together and celebrate amidst the social and political turbulence of the 1960s.
Lyrics
Calling out around the world
Are you ready for a brand new beat
Summer's here and the time is right
For dancing in the street
They're dancing in Chicago (dancing in the street)
Down in New Orleans (dancing in the street)
In New York City (dancing in the street)
All we need is music, sweet music
There'll be music everywhere
There'll be swinging, swaying, and records playing
Dancing in the street
Oh, it doesn't matter what you wear
Just as long as you are there
So come on, every guy, grab a girl
Everywhere around the world
They'll be dancing (dancing in the street)
They're dancing in the street (dancing in the street)
It's an invitation across the nation
A chance for folks to meet
There'll be laughing, singing, and music swinging
Dancing in the street
Philadelphia, P-A (dancing in the street)
Baltimore and D.C. now (dancing in the street)
Can't forget the Motor City (dancing in the street)
All we need is music, sweet music
There'll be music everywhere
There'll be swinging, swaying, and records playing
Dancing in the street
Oh, it doesn't matter what you wear
Just as long as you are there
So come on, every guy, grab a girl
Everywhere around the world
They're dancing
They're dancing in the street (dancing in the street)
Way down in L.A. (dancing in the street)
Every day, they're dancing in the street (dancing in the street)
Let's form a big, strong line (dancing in the street)
Get in time, we're dancing in the street (dancing in the street)
Across the ocean blue (dancing in the street)
Me and you, we're dancing in the street