The Bangles – Walk Like An Egyptian: Lyrics and Music Video
Walk Like An Egyptian by The Bangles lyrics and music video. You can sing while listening to the song Walk Like An Egyptian performed by The Bangles. Hope you like the music video and song lyrics for Walk Like An Egyptian.
About the Song
"Walk Like an Egyptian" by The Bangles is a quirky, upbeat pop-rock song that became one of the most iconic tracks of the 1980s. Released in 1986, the song's playful lyrics, catchy melody, and unique rhythm helped it stand out on the charts and cemented The Bangles' status as one of the defining bands of the decade.
Key Details:
- Release Date: September 1986
- Album: Different Light
- Writer: Liam Sternberg
- Producers: David Kahne
- Genre: Pop Rock, New Wave
Themes and Meaning:
Playful Quirkiness: The lyrics humorously describe people from various walks of life mimicking the distinctive Egyptian pose, evoking a sense of whimsy and fun.
Cultural References: While the song has no deep political or historical meaning, its use of Egyptian imagery adds an exotic and quirky flair.
Universal Appeal: The song’s humor and danceable rhythm make it a lighthearted anthem that transcends cultural barriers.
Lyrics Overview:
The chorus is simple yet irresistibly catchy:
- "Walk like an Egyptian!"
The verses paint vivid scenes of people across the world adopting the titular walk, blending surreal humor with a globally appealing vibe.
Musical Style:
Unique Rhythm: The song features a syncopated beat, driven by tambourines and hand claps, giving it an infectious groove.
Diverse Vocals: Each band member takes a turn singing a verse, showcasing their individual styles and contributing to the song's dynamic feel.
Distinctive Instrumentation: The song is characterized by its jangly guitars and a Middle Eastern-inspired melody.
Commercial Success:
- Chart Performance:
- Reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S., where it stayed for four weeks.
- Topped charts in multiple countries, including Canada and the UK.
- Album Success: Helped propel Different Light to multi-Platinum status.
Legacy and Reception:
Critical Acclaim: The song was praised for its originality, playful tone, and The Bangles’ engaging performance.
Enduring Popularity: It remains a staple of 80s music retrospectives and a fan favorite at Bangles’ concerts.
Cultural Impact:
MTV Favorite: The music video, featuring scenes of people mimicking the Egyptian pose interspersed with shots of the band, was a massive hit during the height of MTV’s popularity.
Dance Floor Classic: Its infectious rhythm makes it a favorite at parties and 80s-themed events.
Pop Culture Icon: Referenced and parodied in TV shows, films, and other media, the song is synonymous with the fun and flamboyance of the 1980s.
Fun Facts:
Origins: Liam Sternberg wrote the song after watching people try to balance on a ferry, inspiring the "walk like an Egyptian" motion.
Vocal Distribution: The song features lead vocals from Susanna Hoffs, Vicki Peterson, and Michael Steele, with drummer Debbi Peterson notably absent from vocal duties.
Mixed Reception: While it was a commercial hit, some critics and listeners viewed the song as a novelty track. However, its enduring popularity has proved its lasting appeal.
In Summary:
"Walk Like an Egyptian" by The Bangles is a playful, high-energy track that became an anthem of the 1980s. With its unique rhythm, humorous lyrics, and global appeal, the song captured the zeitgeist of the era and continues to be a beloved classic. Its infectious charm and lighthearted nature make it a timeless addition to any retro playlist.
The Bangles: Walk Like An Egyptian Lyrics
They do the sand dance,
Don’t you know?
If they move too quick
They’re falling down like a domino.
All the bazaar men by the nile,
They got the money on a bet.
Gold crocodiles they snap their teeth
On your cigarette.
Foreign types with their hookah pipes say
Walk like an egyptian.
The blond waitresses take their trays
They spin around and they cross the floor;
They’ve got the moves.
You drop your drink then they bring you more.
All the school kids so sick of books,
They like the punk and the metal band.
When the buzzer rings,
They’re walking like an egyptian.
All the kids in the marketplace say:
Walk like an egyptian.
Slide your feet up the street
Bend your back
Shift your arm then you pull it back.
Life’s hard you know
So strike a pose on a cadillac.
If you want to find all the cops
They’re hanging out in the donut shop.
They sing and dance
They spin the clubs cruise down the block.
All the japanese with their yen
The party boys call the kremlin
And the chinese know
They walk the line like egyptian.
All the cops in the donut shop say:
Walk like an egyptian
Walk like an egyptian.
