About The Song
The Beatles' energetic medley of "Kansas City/Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey" showcases their ability to infuse rock 'n' roll classics with their own distinctive style. Originally penned by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, "Kansas City" was a rhythm and blues hit in the 1950s, while "Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey" was Little Richard's contribution to the rock 'n' roll canon. In 1964, The Beatles incorporated these two classics into a medley, showcasing their love for the roots of rock music.
The medley kicks off with "Kansas City," a lively and rhythmic ode to the city of the same name. The Beatles' rendition adds a fresh, dynamic energy to the song, with John Lennon's vocals leading the charge. The band's tight harmonies and spirited instrumentals elevate the classic, turning it into a vibrant rock 'n' roll anthem. The seamless transition between the verses and the infectious chorus of "Kansas City" sets the stage for the medley's lively atmosphere.
The transition into "Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey" maintains the high-energy momentum. Originally performed by Little Richard, the song exudes the frenetic, exuberant style that defined his contributions to early rock 'n' roll. Paul McCartney takes the vocal lead in this section, capturing the playful and spirited essence of Little Richard's original performance. The Beatles' interpretation of "Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey" pays homage to the influence of rock pioneers while adding their own flair to the mix.
The medley serves as a testament to The Beatles' ability to pay homage to their musical influences while making each song uniquely their own. The energetic and dynamic performance showcases the band's musical prowess and their knack for breathing new life into classic tunes. "Kansas City/Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey" became a staple in The Beatles' live performances, further solidifying their reputation as a live act that could ignite the stage with infectious enthusiasm.
In the context of the early 1960s, The Beatles' incorporation of rock 'n' roll classics into their repertoire was a bridge between the past and the future of popular music. The medley serves as a celebration of the roots of rock 'n' roll, a genre that would continue to evolve and shape the landscape of music for generations to come. "Kansas City/Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey" stands as a vibrant testament to The Beatles' ability to honor their influences while leaving an indelible mark on the trajectory of rock music.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Ah, Kansas City
Gonna get my baby back home
Yeah, yeah
I'm gonna Kansas city
Gonna get my baby back home
Yeah, yeah
Well, it's a long, long, time
Since my baby's been gone
Ah, Kansas City
Gonna to get my baby on time
Yeah, yeah
I'm gonna Kansas City
Gonna get my baby on time
Yeah, yeah
It's just a one, two, three, four
Five, six, seven, eight, nine, wah
Hey, hey, hey, hey
Hey, baby, woo no clown
I say you're no clown
Now, now, now, now
Tell me baby
What's been wrong with you
Hey, hey, hey, hey
Hey, now baby, woo no clown
I say you're no clown
Now, now, now, now
Tell me baby
What's been wrong with you
Well, I'll say bye
Bye, bye, baby bye, bye
Oh, so long
Bye, bye, baby I'm gone
Yeah, I said
Bye, bye, baby, bye, bye
Bye, bye, bye, bye
Well, I'll say bye
Bye, bye, baby bye, bye