For a Song: Walk the Dinosaur

Was (Not Was): Walk the Dinosaur

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I’ve been here over a year now, and I have presented the works of some inspired songwriters with a lot to say. But New Year’s Eve is coming up fast. For one night, I don’t expect anyone to be thinking about lyrics. What is needed is a great song to dance to. So here is Walk the Dinosaur.

I know of three versions of this one. Here is the original. The newest version is by Queen Latifah, and can be heard at the end of the last Ice Age movie. Oddly, the other cover I know of was also done for a kid’s movie. I had no kids at the time, but, for some reason I went to see Super Mario Brothers in the theater. Remember that one? I can’t blame you if you don’t. But George Clinton of all people did Walk the Dinosaur for that one. It was probably the best thing in the movie.

Was (Not Was) were a crazed group from the 80s. Music video was the rage, and a lot of bands could do whatever they wanted as long as they delivered a good video. Was (Not Was) took full advantage of this. They would get bizarre, or just down right silly. A few titles will give you some idea: Man vs the Empire Brain Building, Hello Dad, (I’m in Jail), Zaz Turned Blue. But they had a great sense of the groove. Even so, these days, a major label would never touch them.

So here is one of those great grooves to dance the old year away. And my best wishes to all in the new one.