“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Swingin'” by John Anderson is one of those songs that transports you straight to a lively, nostalgic scene, perhaps at a dance hall in a small Southern town. Its infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics have made it a staple in country music playlists since its release. Anderson’s warm, engaging voice adds a unique charm to the song, making it an enduring favorite for fans of traditional country music and beyond.
About The Composition
- Title: Swingin’
- Composer: John Anderson, Lionel Delmore
- Premiere Date: January 1983
- Album/Opus/Collection: Wild & Blue
- Genre: Country
Background
“Swingin'” was released in January 1983 as a single from John Anderson’s album “Wild & Blue.” The song quickly gained popularity, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about simple pleasures resonated with audiences, making it one of Anderson’s most successful hits. The song’s initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, solidifying Anderson’s place in the country music scene during the early 1980s.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Swingin'” is characterized by its upbeat, lively rhythm and traditional country instrumentation. The song features a blend of acoustic guitar, fiddle, and a steady drum beat, creating a danceable and joyful sound that captures the essence of country music.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Swingin'” tell a story of young love and carefree days. The narrative follows a young man who enjoys spending time with his sweetheart, Charlotte Johnson, in a lighthearted and playful manner. The song’s themes of love and simplicity are expressed through vivid and relatable imagery.
Performance History
Since its release, “Swingin'” has been performed by John Anderson at numerous concerts and events, becoming a staple in his live performances. The song’s popularity has also led to various covers by other artists, showcasing its enduring appeal across different generations of country music fans.
Cultural Impact
“Swingin'” has left a significant mark on popular culture, appearing in various media forms, including television and film. Its catchy tune and memorable lyrics have made it a favorite for covers and performances on talent shows, further cementing its place in the cultural lexicon.
Legacy
Today, “Swingin'” remains a beloved classic in the country music genre. Its timeless appeal and relatable themes continue to resonate with new audiences, ensuring its place in the pantheon of great country songs. John Anderson’s performance and the song’s infectious energy have secured its legacy as a quintessential country hit.
Conclusion
“Swingin'” by John Anderson is more than just a song; it’s a celebration of life’s simple joys. Its warm and engaging melody invites listeners to reminisce about carefree moments and young love. I encourage anyone who hasn’t experienced this classic to give it a listen and explore more of John Anderson’s music to truly appreciate the richness of his contributions to country music.
Video
Lyrics
There’s a little girl in our neighborhood,
Her name is Charlotte Johnson and she’s really lookin’ good.
I had to go and see her, so I called her on the phone.
I walked over to her house and this was going on:
Her brother was on the sofa, eatin’ chocolate pie,
Her Mama was in the kitchen cuttin’ chicken up to fry.
Her daddy was in the backyard rollin’ up a garden hose,
I was on the porch with Charlotte, feelin’ love down to my toes…
And we were Swingin’, yes we were Swingin’…
Little Charlotte she’s as pretty as the angels when they sing,
I can’t believe I’m out here on her front porch in this swing,
Just-a-swingin,
Yeah, and we’ll be swingin, yes, we’ll be swinging.
Little Charlotte she’s as pretty as the angels when they sang,
I can’t believe I’m out here on the front porch in the swang,
Just-a-swangin.
Now Charlotte she’s the darlin’, she’s the apple of my eye,
And when I’m on the swang with her it makes me almost high.
And Charlotte is my lover and she has been since the sprang,
I just can’t believe it started on her front porch in this swang.
Just a swangin, well just a swangin,
Little Charlotte she’s as pretty as the angels when they sang,
I can’t believe I’m out here on the front porch in the swang,
Just-a-swangin.
I said, Little Charlotte she’s as pretty as the angels when they sang,
I can’t believe I’m out here on her front porch in the swang,
Just-a-swangin.