A Blast from the Past: Unveiling the Infectious Energy of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles’ “Going To A Go-Go”
Ah, the 1960s. A decade pulsating with social change, cultural revolution, and of course, an explosion of infectious music. Nestled comfortably within this vibrant soundscape is the iconic Motown group, Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, and their irresistible anthem, “Going To A Go-Go”.
Released in 1965, this song transcended a mere track; it became a cultural phenomenon, a sonic embodiment of the burgeoning “go-go” scene, and a testament to the group’s undeniable musical prowess.
Background
But before we delve into the infectious groove of “Going To A Go-Go,” let’s rewind and paint a picture of the landscape that birthed it. Motown Records, a powerhouse label founded by Berry Gordy in Detroit, Michigan, was rapidly redefining the sound of American music.
Gordy’s vision, often referred to as the “Motown Sound,” blended elements of R&B, gospel, and pop, creating a sound that resonated with a wide audience. Smokey Robinson and The Miracles were one of Motown’s brightest stars.
Led by the ever-soulful vocals of Smokey Robinson himself, the group churned out a string of hits throughout the 1960s, including “Shop Around,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” and the tearjerking ballad “The Tracks of My Tears.”
However, “Going To A Go-Go” marked a departure for the group. It was a vibrant, uptempo explosion of sound, a far cry from their previous ballads. The inspiration for the song came from the burgeoning popularity of “go-go” clubs, a new breed of nightclubs featuring high-energy music and energetic dancers.
These clubs, often frequented by young African Americans, provided a space for social interaction and pure, uninhibited fun.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Well, there’s a brand new place I’ve foundaWhere people go from miles aroundaThey come from ev’rywhere and if you drop in thereYou might see anyone in townaGoing To A Go-GoGoing To A Go-GoDon’t you want to go(A-one more time. . . .yeah!)I’m Going To A Go-GoGoing To A Go-GoGoing To A Go-GoDon’t you want to go