About the song
Released in 1972, “My Ding-A-Ling” became an unexpected and somewhat controversial hit for rock and roll pioneer Chuck Berry. Featured on his live album The London Chuck Berry Sessions, this novelty song took Berry to the top of the charts, earning him his first and only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100—a surprising achievement considering his long history of classic rock staples like “Johnny B. Goode” and “Roll Over Beethoven”. The track was recorded live in Coventry, England, adding a raw, unfiltered energy to its playful and humorous delivery.
A Song with Double Meanings
At its core, “My Ding-A-Ling” is a lighthearted and mischievous song built around playful double entendres. Originally written and recorded by Dave Bartholomew in 1952, the song’s lyrics revolve around childhood innocence—at least on the surface. Berry’s version takes the original concept and amplifies its humor, encouraging the audience to sing along in a call-and-response style. The song’s charm lies in the way it balances between innocence and innuendo, making it both amusing and slightly risqué.
Cultural Impact and Public Reaction
Despite its comedic tone, “My Ding-A-Ling” was not without controversy. In an era when rock music was increasingly pushing boundaries, Berry’s playful lyrics led to bans on certain radio stations and raised eyebrows among more conservative listeners. Some critics dismissed it as a novelty track that didn’t reflect Berry’s true musical genius, while others celebrated its humor and cleverness.
Regardless of the mixed reception, the song was a commercial success, topping the US and UK charts and becoming one of Berry’s most memorable late-career hits. It also highlighted his ability to connect with audiences in a different way—through humor and participation rather than just electrifying guitar work.
Legacy and Significance
While “My Ding-A-Ling” may not be considered Berry’s greatest artistic achievement, it remains an important part of his career. The song showcased his playful personality, his ability to engage a crowd, and his influence on rock and roll as a genre that embraces both rebellion and fun. Even today, the track sparks discussions about humor in music and the role of novelty songs in shaping pop culture.
Ultimately, Chuck Berry will always be remembered for his groundbreaking contributions to rock and roll, but “My Ding-A-Ling” serves as a reminder of his charisma, wit, and ability to surprise audiences—even decades into his career.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
When I was a little bitty boy
My grandmother bought me a cute little toy
Silver bells hangin’ on a string
She told me it was my ding a ling ling[Chorus]
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I wanna play with my ding a ling[Verse 2]
When mamma took me to Sunday School
They tried to teach me the golden rule
Every time the choir would sing
I’d sit there and play with my ding a ling[Chorus]
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I wanna play with my ding a ling[Verse 3]
When Pa started me to Grammar School
I found a place in the vestibule
And every time the bell would ring
They’d catch me playin’ with my ding a ling
[Chorus]
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling[Verse 4]
Once I was climbing the garden wall
Oh and I had an awful fall
I fell so hard I heard bells ring
But I never let go of my ding a ling[Chorus]
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling[Verse 5]
I remember the girl next door
We used to play house on the kitchen floor
She’d be the queen, I’d be the king
Together we’d play with my ding a ling a ling[Chorus]
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling
[Verse 6]
This here song, it is so sad
To those of you who never had
Silver bells hanging on a string
So you could play with your own ding a ling[Chorus]
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
All come on now, everybody sing
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling
My ding a ling, my ding a ling
I want to play with my ding a ling (One more time)