The Meaning Behind The Song: Sha La La La Lee by Small Faces
Small Faces was a British rock band that rose to fame in the 1960s. One of their most popular songs, “Sha La La La Lee,” was released in 1966 and became an instant hit. The song was written by Kenny Lynch and Mort Shuman, and produced by Don Arden. “Sha La La La Lee” reflects the upbeat and optimistic spirit of the 1960s, and is still listened to and enjoyed by fans today. In this article, we delve into the meaning behind the song and the story behind its creation.
The Inspiration Behind The Song
Kenny Lynch and Mort Shuman, the writers of “Sha La La La Lee,” wrote the song in 1965. The inspiration behind it is said to have originated from a group of women who were shouting and singing while walking down the street. One of them shouted “Sha La La La Lee,” and the writers found the phrase catchy and decided to use it in a song. They also wanted to create a fun and carefree tune that would resonate with audiences.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Sha La La La Lee” are simple and upbeat, perfect for a sing-along. The chorus contains the phrase “Sha la la la lee,” which repeats throughout the song. The verses talk about a girl who is loved by everyone and who brings joy and happiness wherever she goes. The lyrics are meant to convey a sense of innocence and simplicity, a reflection of the carefree attitudes of the 1960s.
The Music
The music of “Sha La La La Lee” is upbeat and catchy, with a distinctive guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The song is in a major key, which contributes to the happy and positive vibes. The melody is simple and easy to remember, making it the perfect song for dancing and singing along.
The Legacy of the Song
“Sha La La La Lee” has stood the test of time and remains a popular song that is still listened to by fans all over the world. It has been covered by numerous artists, including the Beach Boys and the Marmalade. The song has also been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. Its legacy is a testament to the power of catchy tunes and feel-good lyrics.
The Story Behind the Band
Small Faces was formed in 1965 and consisted of members Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, and Jimmy Winston. They were known for their energetic performances and catchy tunes that captured the spirit of the 1960s. However, the band was plagued by internal conflicts and disagreements, leading to the departure of Jimmy Winston in 1965. Ian McLagan replaced him as the keyboardist.
The Band’s Breakup
Despite their popularity, Small Faces broke up in 1969 due to creative differences and disagreements with their manager, Don Arden. Steve Marriott left the band to form a new group, Humble Pie, while Ronnie Lane went on to form his own band, Slim Chance. The remaining members, Kenney Jones and Ian McLagan, joined The Who and The Rolling Stones, respectively.
The Impact of the Song
“Sha La La La Lee” had a significant impact on popular culture and helped to shape the sound of 1960s rock. The song’s catchy melody and optimistic lyrics reflected the carefree attitudes and optimism of the era. It also helped to cement Small Faces’ place in rock history and contributed to their legacy as one of the most influential bands of the 1960s.
The Song’s Influence on Future Artists
“Sha La La La Lee” has influenced numerous artists and bands, both at the time of its release and in the decades since. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat lyrics have inspired countless musicians to create similar tunes that capture the same spirit. Its impact can be heard in everything from pop to rock to hip-hop, making it a timeless classic.
The Reception of the Song
“Sha La La La Lee” was well-received upon its release and quickly became a hit in the UK and US charts. It reached number three on the UK Singles Chart and number 44 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success cemented Small Faces’ place in the music industry and helped to launch their career.
The Song’s Place in Cultural History
“Sha La La La Lee” is a cultural touchstone that reflects the spirit of the 1960s. Its catchy tune and positive lyrics helped to create a sense of optimism and carefree spirit that defined the era. The song’s legacy is a testament to the resilience of popular culture and the power of music to bring people together.
The Legacy of Small Faces
Small Faces left an indelible mark on the music industry and paved the way for future artists. Their catchy melodies and upbeat lyrics captured the spirit of the 1960s and helped to shape the sound of rock. Their influence can be heard in countless bands and genres, making them one of the most important bands of their time.
The Story Behind the Writers
Kenny Lynch and Mort Shuman were prolific songwriters who had a significant impact on the music industry. Lynch was a British singer and songwriter who wrote hits for numerous artists, including The Small Faces, The Four Tops, and The Drifters. Shuman was an American songwriter who wrote hits for ELvis Presley, as well as collaborating with other writers such as Doc Pomus and Jerry Leiber.
The Musical Style of Small Faces
Small Faces were known for their unique blend of rock and soul, which reflected the changing tastes of the 1960s. Their catchy melodies and upbeat lyrics drew on a range of musical styles, from rock to blues to R&B. Their energetic performances and distinctive sound helped to set them apart from other bands of the era.
The Musical Influences of Small Faces
Small Faces drew on a variety of musical influences, including Motown, jazz, and blues. Their unique sound was influenced by artists such as Otis Redding, James Brown, and the Rolling Stones. Their musical style reflected the changing tastes of the 1960s and helped to shape the sound of rock.
The Popularity of “Sha La La La Lee” Today
Despite being released over 50 years ago, “Sha La La La Lee” is still a popular song that is enjoyed by fans today. It has been covered by various artists and has even been featured in popular TV shows such as The Sopranos. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat lyrics continue to resonate with audiences and it remains a testament to Small Faces’ enduring legacy.
The Importance of Small Faces’ Legacy Today
Small Faces’ legacy remains an important part of musical history, influencing generations of musicians and shaping the sound of rock. Their catchy melodies, upbeat lyrics, and energetic performances captured the spirit of the 1960s and helped to shape the tastes and values of the era. Today, their music is still enjoyed by fans around the world and their legacy remains a testament to the power of popular culture.
