I Go Ape !!!

Neil Sedaka's song 'I Go Ape !!!' is a whimsical and playful ode to love, filled with humorous metaphors and vivid imagery. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who is so infatuated with his lover that he likens his feelings to those of a wild, primal creature. The moonlit night sets the perfect romantic backdrop, and as he holds his beloved close, he confesses that her smile drives him wild, making him feel like a 'ding dong gorilla' ready to sweep her off her feet in a caveman style. This exaggerated comparison adds a layer of humor and charm to the song, making it both endearing and entertaining.

The chorus of the song is particularly catchy, with its playful references to various primates and their antics. Sedaka sings about being a 'monkey's uncle' and a 'cousin to a chimpanzee,' emphasizing how his lover brings out the 'monkey business' in him. The use of animalistic imagery continues as he describes himself as a 'pre-historic man' who goes 'ape' when he holds her hand. This playful language not only highlights the intensity of his emotions but also adds a fun, light-hearted tone to the song.

Throughout the song, Sedaka promises to be true to his lover, offering to keep her in bananas and coconuts and even suggesting they settle down in a zoo. This quirky promise underscores the song's theme of playful devotion and the lengths he is willing to go to make her happy. The repeated refrain of 'ranga tanga ring ting tong' and references to 'old king kong' further enhance the song's whimsical nature, making 'I Go Ape !!!' a delightful and memorable expression of love.