About The Song
Released in 1958, “Move It!” by Cliff Richard & The Drifters (later known as Cliff Richard and The Shadows) is a groundbreaking song in the development of rock and roll in the UK. Written by Ian Samwell, this track became an instant hit and is widely regarded as the UK’s first authentic rock and roll single. The song’s fast tempo, energetic guitar riffs, and Cliff Richard’s spirited vocals helped establish him as one of the most prominent figures in British pop music and marked the beginning of a successful career that would span decades.
The song’s lyrics convey the youthful excitement of dancing and moving to the rhythm of rock and roll music. The repeated call to “move it!” encourages the listener to get up and dance, capturing the free-spirited attitude of early rock and roll. The song’s lively energy, paired with the enthusiastic vocals of Cliff Richard, makes it an anthem of youthful rebellion and fun, reflecting the growing popularity of rock and roll among young audiences in the UK.
Musically, “Move It!” features an energetic guitar riff and a driving beat, characteristics of the rock and roll genre. The upbeat rhythm section, coupled with Samwell’s catchy guitar lines, creates a lively atmosphere that invites listeners to move along with the music. Cliff Richard’s vocal performance is both confident and playful, perfectly matching the song’s upbeat tone. The backing harmonies from The Drifters (later to become The Shadows) add depth and texture to the track, enhancing its overall dynamism and creating a sound that was fresh and exciting for the time.
When “Move It!” was released, it quickly gained popularity, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart and becoming a defining song of the late 1950s rock and roll scene in the UK. The song not only showcased Cliff Richard’s vocal ability but also helped cement The Drifters as a key part of his backing group. The success of “Move It!” helped Richard become known as the “British Elvis” and played a significant role in establishing rock and roll as a mainstream genre in the UK.
Today, “Move It!” is recognized as one of the most important early rock and roll tracks in the UK, often cited as the country’s answer to the American rock and roll explosion. The song’s high energy, catchy melody, and infectious enthusiasm continue to make it a fan favorite, and its influence on the development of British rock and roll is undeniable. Cliff Richard & The Drifters set the stage for the wave of British rock artists who would follow in the 1960s, and “Move It!” remains a timeless classic, exemplifying the spirit of early rock and roll.