The Commodores – Brick House: A Funky Celebration of Female Strength
The Commodores, a group renowned for their soulful harmonies and tight musicianship, had already established themselves as a force in R&B by the time “Brick House” hit the airwaves. However, with this single, they ventured further into the realm of funk, incorporating elements of disco and driving basslines. The result was a song that was both irresistible and innovative, pushing the boundaries of contemporary soul music.
Background
Released in 1977 on their self-titled album (known as “Zoom” in the UK), this funky anthem became an instant classic, captivating audiences with its infectious groove and playful lyrics.
The song’s title, of course, serves as a metaphor. “Brick House” doesn’t refer to a literal structure, but rather to a woman of remarkable strength and resilience.
The lyrics, penned by Walter “Clyde” Orange (one of The Commodores’ drummers and occasional lead vocalist), paint a vivid picture of this captivating woman.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Ow, she’s a brick houseShe’s mighty-mighty, just lettin’ it all hang outShe’s a brick houseThat lady’s stacked and that’s a factAin’t holding nothing backOw, she’s a brick houseWell put-together, everybody knowsThis is how the story goesShe knows she got everythingThat a woman needs to get a man, yeah, yeahHow can she lose with the stuff she useThirty-six, twenty-four, thirty-six oh what a winning hand‘Cause she’s a brick houseShe’s mighty-mighty, just lettin’ it all hang outShe’s a brick houseOw, that lady stacked and that’s a factAin’t holding nothing backOw, she’s a brick houseYeah, she’s the one, the only one, built like an amazonThe clothes she wears, her sexy waysMake an old man wish for younger days, yeah, yeahShe knows she’s built and knows how to pleaseSure enough to knock a strong man to his knees‘Cause she’s a brick houseYeah, she’s mighty mighty, just lettin’ it all hang outShe’s a brick houseThe lady’s stacked and that’s a factAin’t holding nothing back