The Decoding of Poison Ivy by The Coasters

The Coasters were known for their peculiar blend of doo-wop, R&B and rock and roll. Among their many hits, Poison Ivy stands out as one of their most notable songs. Released in 1959, the song debuted at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remained on the chart for thirteen weeks. Poison Ivy is a song that has stood the test of time and has been covered by various artists across different genres. In this article, we will look at the meaning behind the song and what inspired them to create such an iconic tune.

The Origins of Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who were the songwriters and producers behind most of The Coasters’ biggest hits. According to Leiber, the song was inspired by a girl he had dated who had given him poison ivy. The song was intended to be a comical take on how women can be both alluring and dangerous.

When The Coasters recorded the song, they added their own unique spin and humor to it. They created a very playful and catchy tune that was irresistible to audiences. The song featured a saxophone solo, a catchy chorus and lead vocals by Carl Gardner, all of which contributed to its success.

The Lyrics and Their Meaning

The lyrics of Poison Ivy were written in a way that was both humorous and poignant. It talks about a girl who is beautiful and alluring but who can also be dangerous like poison ivy. Here is a breakdown of the lyrics and their meaning:

“She comes on like a rose but everybody knows
She’ll get you in Dutch
You can look but you better not touch
Poison ivy, poison ivy”

This verse sets the tone for the song, warning men to be careful around this girl. She is compared to a rose, which is beautiful but has thorns. The line about getting “you in Dutch” is a reference to getting into trouble.

“Late at night while you’re sleepin’
Poison ivy comes a’creepin’
Around”

This verse suggests that this girl is a seductress who is always lurking in the shadows, waiting for her next victim.

“You can hear her sigh, you can see her wheel
You can hear her comin’, you can feel her steal
Poison ivy, poison ivy”

This verse is a play on words. It refers to the sound of rustling leaves, which could be mistaken for Poison Ivy creeping up on someone. It also plays on the idea of being stolen away by this girl.

“Well late at night while you’re sleepin’
Poison ivy comes a’creepin’
Around”

The chorus repeats itself, which makes it easy to remember and sing-along to. The repetition also emphasizes the warning to men to be careful.

Why the Song Became So Popular

Poison Ivy became so popular because it was catchy, playful and relatable. The lyrics painted a picture of a girl that many men could identify with. She was beautiful and alluring, but also dangerous. The song was also infused with humor, which made it more palatable to audiences.

In addition, the song featured the signature sound of The Coasters, which was a combination of doo-wop, R&B and rock and roll. It was a sound that resonated with audiences and helped to make the song a hit.

The Legacy of Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy has stood the test of time and has been covered by various artists across different genres. The song has been immortalized in pop culture and has been featured in movies, TV shows and commercials. Its catchy chorus is instantly recognizable and has become a part of the cultural lexicon.

Moreover, Poison Ivy is a testament to the enduring popularity of The Coasters and their contribution to the music industry. The song is a testament to the genius of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who wrote some of the most iconic songs of the 20th century.

Conclusion

Poison Ivy is a classic song that has stood the test of time. Its lyrics and catchy tune have made it a favorite among audiences and have ensured its place in music history. The song is a testament to the creativity and unique sound of The Coasters, as well as the writing prowess of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Though the song was written over 60 years ago, its message is still relevant today, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers alike.