“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Walk Like A Man” is a classic pop song by The Four Seasons, released in 1963. It became one of the group’s signature hits, showcasing their distinctive harmonies and the powerful falsetto of lead singer Frankie Valli. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and is still celebrated today as a quintessential track from the early 1960s rock and pop era.
The song’s catchy melody and memorable lyrics helped solidify The Four Seasons’ place in music history. Known for its upbeat tempo and energetic delivery, “Walk Like A Man” remains a popular choice for oldies radio stations and continues to be enjoyed by new generations of listeners.
About The Composition
- Title: Walk Like A Man
- Composer: Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio
- Premiere Date: January 1963
- Album/Opus/Collection: The song was part of the album “Big Girls Don’t Cry and Twelve Others”
- Genre: Pop/Rock
Background
“Walk Like A Man” was written by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, the latter being a member of The Four Seasons. The song was recorded by the band and became their third number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The recording session for the song was famously intense, as producer Bob Crewe reportedly urged the band to perform with passion and energy, even as a fire broke out in the building where they were recording.
The song’s success played a significant role in establishing The Four Seasons as one of the leading vocal groups of the early 1960s. Their unique sound, characterized by Frankie Valli’s powerful falsetto, was a defining feature of their music, and “Walk Like A Man” exemplified this to great effect.
Musical Style
“Walk Like A Man” features an upbeat and driving rhythm, with strong vocal harmonies that are a hallmark of The Four Seasons’ sound. The instrumentation is typical of early 1960s pop-rock, including bass, guitar, and drums, providing a lively backdrop to the vocal performance. The song’s energetic tempo and catchy hooks make it instantly recognizable and memorable.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Walk Like A Man” convey themes of masculinity and resilience. The song’s protagonist is encouraged to “walk like a man” and face life’s challenges with strength and dignity, a message that resonated with many listeners at the time. The straightforward and relatable lyrics contributed to the song’s broad appeal.
Performance History
“Walk Like A Man” has been performed by The Four Seasons in numerous live shows and television appearances, cementing its status as a staple of their repertoire. The song’s dynamic energy makes it a crowd favorite, and it has been covered by various artists over the years, further extending its reach and impact.
Cultural Impact
The song has appeared in various films and television shows, helping to keep it in the public consciousness. Its inclusion in popular media has introduced it to new audiences, allowing it to maintain its cultural relevance decades after its initial release. The song’s themes and style have influenced many artists who followed in the pop-rock genre.
Legacy
Today, “Walk Like A Man” is regarded as one of The Four Seasons’ most iconic songs. It continues to be celebrated for its catchy tune and timeless message. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the lasting impact of The Four Seasons on the music industry, and it remains a beloved classic.
Conclusion
“Walk Like A Man” by The Four Seasons is a remarkable piece of music history that still captivates listeners today. Its infectious energy and memorable lyrics invite fans to explore more of The Four Seasons’ catalog and appreciate the band’s contribution to the evolution of pop and rock music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their work, this song is a great starting point for further exploration into the vibrant sound of the 1960s.
Video
Lyrics
Oo woo-oo-oo oo woo-oo-oo
(Wop wop wop wop)
Oo woo-oo-oo oo woo-oo-oo
Walk like a man
Oh how you tried
To cut me down to size
By telling dirty lies to my friends
But my own father
Said give her up don’t bother
The world isn’t coming to an end
He said walk like a man
Talk like a man
Walk like a man my son
No woman’s worth
Crawling on the earth
So walk like a man my son
Oo woo-oo-oo oo woo-oo-oo
(Wop wop wop wop)
Oo woo-oo-oo oo woo-oo-oo
Fine eyed baby
I don’t mean maybe
We’re gonna get along somehow
Soon you’ll be crying
On ‘ccount of all you’re lying
Oh yea just look who’s laughing now
I’m gonna walk like a man
Fast as I can
Walk like a man from you
I’ll tell the world
Forget about it girl
And walk like a man from you
Oo woo-oo-oo oo woo-oo-oo
(Wop wop wop wop)
Oo woo-oo-oo oo woo-oo-oo
Oo woo-oo-oo oo woo-oo-oo
(Wop wop wop wop)
Oo woo-oo-oo oo woo-oo-oo