The Meaning Behind The Song: You Make Me Feel Like Dancing by Leo Sayer
“You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” is a classic disco track that was released by Leo Sayer in 1976, and it quickly became one of his biggest hits. The song is an upbeat and catchy dance track that has been a staple in many parties and events, and it remains a popular choice for many people who love to dance.
However, there is more to this song than just the music. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” and what makes it such a timeless classic.
The Story Behind the Song
Leo Sayer co-wrote “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” with Vini Poncia, and the song was produced by Richard Perry. The idea for the song came from Leo’s love for dancing. He was inspired by the disco era and the way it made people feel. The song is about the joy of dancing and how it can bring two people together.
In an interview with PopMatters, Leo Sayer said, “I remember being in clubs and seeing so many people dancing together. For me, as an entertainer, my whole focus is about making people feel good. When you see people smiling and dancing, there’s no greater reward.”
The song was recorded at the Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles, and it features elements of funk, disco, and pop. The track was released as a single in December 1976 and quickly climbed the charts, becoming a worldwide hit, reaching #2 in the UK and #1 in the US.
The Message of the Song
The message of “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” is simple: dance and love. It is a song about two people who meet on the dance floor, who are attracted to each other, and who fall in love through dance. The lyrics suggest that dancing can bring people together, and that love can be found in the joy of moving and dancing.
The song begins with the lyrics, “You’ve got a cute way of talking, you’ve got the better of me / Just snap your fingers and I’m walking like a dog.” These lyrics suggest that the person on the dance floor has caught the attention of the singer and has made him feel like a fool in love.
The chorus of the song goes, “You make me feel like dancing, I wanna dance my life away / You make me feel like dancing, I’m gonna dance the night away.” These lyrics encapsulate the feeling of pure joy and happiness one feels when they dance, with someone they love.
One of the most notable lines in the song is, “I feel like dancing, dancing, dance the night away.” This type of repetition is called an Epiphora, and it emphasizes the importance of dancing as a critical element in romance. Dancing is a way to loosen up and feel free, too, and at the same time, connect with someone in a joyful activity.
The Significance of the Song
“You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” is a timeless classic that has remained popular even after 40 years since its release. The song became an anthem for the disco era and remains an essential part of disco music.
The song’s significance lies in its message of love and the joy that dancing can bring to people. Dancing is a way to connect with people, even when words fail to do so. The song is also a reminder of the importance of music in our lives and how it can impact us on many levels.
Apart from its message, the song features Leo Sayer’s one-of-a-kind voice, which has a unique sound that is both appealing and uncommon in music. The song’s trumpet melody, piano rhythms, and other instrumentation also contribute to its upbeat and danceable nature.
The Legacy of the Song
“You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” has a significant legacy in the American music scene. It became an instant hit, and it continues to be a popular song that many people associate with the disco era. The song has also been featured in various films, including “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” and “Happy Feet.”
The song won Leo Sayer a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song in 1978 and was covered by several artists, including the Yale Whiffenpoofs, who were a capella singers.
The track also inspired Leo to write his hit song “More Than I Can Say,” which also became a success in 1980.
The Song’s Impact on People
“You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” has had a significant impact on people, not only in terms of music but also in terms of emotions. The song’s upbeat and catchy melody has brought joy and happiness to many people, while its lyrics have made people think about the importance of dancing in their lives.
The song makes people feel good, and it is often played at parties and events where people want to dance. It also resonates with those who have experienced the feeling of meeting someone special on the dance floor, and it can take them back to that moment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What inspired Leo Sayer to write “You Make Me Like Dancing?”
Leo Sayer wrote the song because of his love for dancing. He was inspired by the disco era, the way it brought people together, and the joy it brought to people’s lives.
Who produced “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing?”
Richard Perry produced the track and helped to bring Leo Sayer’s vision to life.
What was the song’s message?
The message of the song was about dancing and love. The song suggests that dancing can bring people together and that love can be found in the joy of moving and dancing.
When was “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” released?
The song was released in December 1976 as a single and quickly became a worldwide hit.
What instrument dominated the song?
The trumpet song in the song is one of the most memorable and significant features of the track.
What was the song’s legacy?
The song has become an anthem for the disco era and has remained popular even after many years from its release. The song has also been covered by several artists and has inspired people to consider the importance of dancing in their lives.
What impact did “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” have on people?
The song had a significant impact on people, not just in terms of music, but also in terms of emotions. The song’s upbeat and catchy melody brought joy and happiness to many people, while its lyrics made people think about the importance of dancing in their lives.
What other hit song did “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” inspire Leo Sayer to write?
The song inspired Leo Sayer to write another hit song called “More Than I Can Say,” which also became a success in 1980.
Has the song been used in any popular films?
The song has been featured in several films, including “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” and “Happy Feet.”
Has “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” been covered by any other artists?
Yes, the song has been covered by several artists, including the Yale Whiffenpoofs, who were a capella singers.
What award did “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” win?
The song won Leo Sayer a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song in 1978.
What elements of music does “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” feature?
The song features elements of funk, disco, and pop music, and it is known for its catchy melody, rhythm, and trumpet playing.
Is there any dance that goes with “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing?”
The song itself is very danceable, and you can dance any way you feel like with the track.
