The Mamas & The Papas – Dancing in the Street

About the song

“Dancing in the Street” by The Mamas & The Papas is a vibrant and joyous cover of the classic Motown hit originally performed by Martha and the Vandellas. Released in 1966 as part of their sophomore album “The Mamas & The Papas”, this rendition encapsulates the group’s signature harmonies and their ability to infuse familiar songs with their unique folk-rock sensibility. While the original version of “Dancing in the Street” became an anthem for social change during the 1960s, the interpretation by The Mamas & The Papas highlights their artistry and connection to the cultural moment.

The song itself was originally written by Marvin Gaye, William “Mickey” Stevenson, and Ivy Jo Hunter and released in 1964. It quickly became one of Motown’s most enduring hits, with its irresistible rhythm, call-to-action lyrics, and celebration of unity. When The Mamas & The Papas decided to include it on their album, they brought their distinctive California sound to the track, softening its punchy Motown energy but amplifying its lyrical warmth and celebratory nature. Their version is less about protest and more about community, a reflection of the group’s ethos and their role in the burgeoning counterculture.

Musically, “Dancing in the Street” by The Mamas & The Papas retains the infectious energy of the original but adds layers of intricate vocal harmonies, which were the hallmark of their style. Cass Elliot, Michelle Phillips, John Phillips, and Denny Doherty blend their voices seamlessly, creating a lush, choral-like sound that elevates the song’s anthemic quality. The arrangement leans into folk-pop instrumentation, with jangly guitars and a steady rhythm that complement the group’s vocal interplay.

The lyrics of “Dancing in the Street” remain as powerful as ever, inviting people from all walks of life to come together and celebrate their shared humanity. Lines like “It doesn’t matter what you wear, just as long as you are there” emphasize inclusivity and the universality of music as a force for connection and joy. The Mamas & The Papas deliver these words with an infectious sense of fun and lightness, making their version a perfect fit for the optimistic spirit of the 1960s.

While their take on the song did not achieve the same level of cultural impact as the original, it remains a noteworthy entry in their discography. It showcases their ability to reinterpret contemporary hits through the lens of their distinct musical identity, blending folk, rock, and pop influences into a cohesive whole.

“Dancing in the Street” by The Mamas & The Papas serves as a reminder of the unifying power of music. It celebrates the joy of collective expression, whether through dancing, singing, or simply coming together. Decades later, it continues to resonate with audiences, standing as a testament to the timeless appeal of both the song and the group who reimagined it.

Video

Lyrics

Callin’ out around the world
Are you ready for a brand new beat?
Summer’s here and the time is right
For dancin’ in the streets
They’re dancin’ in Chicago
Down in New Orleans
Up in New York City

All we need is music (sweet music)
Sweet music (sweet music)
There’ll be music everywhere (everywhere)
There’ll be swingin’, swayin’ and records playin’
And dancin’ in the streets

Oh, it doesn’t matter what you wear
Just as long as you are there
So come on, every guy (come on) grab a girl
Everywhere around the world
There’ll be dancing
They’re dancing in the street

This is an invitation
Across the nation
A chance for the folks to meet
There’ll be laughin’, singin’, and music swingin’
And dancin’ in the streets

Philadelphia, P.A. (Philadelphia, P.A.)
Baltimore and DC now (Baltimore and DC now)
Yeah, don’t forget the Motor City
(Can’t forget the Motor City)
All we need is music (sweet music)
Sweet music (sweet music)
There’ll be music everywhere (everywhere)
There’ll be swingin’, swayin’ and records playin’
And dancin’ in the street, yeah

Oh, it doesn’t matter what you wear
Just as long as you are there
So come on, every guy (come on, come on) grasp a girl
Everywhere around the world

There’ll be dan-, fun
They dancin’ in the streets
Philadelphia, P.A. (Philadelphia, P.A.)
Baltimore and DC now (Baltimore and DC now)
Can’t we forget that Motor City
(Can’t forget the Motor City)
Way down in L.A., California
(Way down in L.A., California)

Not to mention Halifax, Nova Scotia (not to mention, indeed)
Or Long Barn, they do that Riverdale, cream you know (yes, I know)
Manchester (and, oh, Amherst, Amherst)
Alexandria (Virginia, Virginia)
Falls Church (where’s that?)
Oh, Boyle Heights (Boyle Heights, never heard of it)