Turn The Beat Around
Vicki Sue Robinson
The Rhythmic Revolution: Vicki Sue Robinson's 'Turn The Beat Around'
Vicki Sue Robinson's 'Turn The Beat Around' is a vibrant celebration of rhythm and percussion, capturing the essence of the disco era with its infectious energy and danceable beats. The song's repetitive chorus, 'Turn it up, turn it up, turn it upside down,' emphasizes the transformative power of music, urging listeners to immerse themselves in the rhythm and let it take control. The lyrics highlight various musical elements, such as horns, violins, guitars, and flutes, each contributing to the overall groove and making the song a rich tapestry of sound.
The song's focus on percussion is particularly noteworthy. Robinson sings about her love for the beat, describing how the syncopated rhythms of the guitar and drums make her want to move her body. This emphasis on rhythm and movement is a hallmark of disco music, which was designed to get people on the dance floor. The lyrics also suggest a sense of liberation and joy that comes from losing oneself in the music, a common theme in disco culture where the dance floor was a space for freedom and self-expression.
'Blow horns you sure sound pretty' and 'Flute player play your flute' are lines that personify the instruments, giving them a life of their own and highlighting their importance in creating the song's dynamic sound. The song's structure, with its repeated calls to 'turn the beat around,' reinforces the idea of music as a cyclical, ever-evolving force that can uplift and energize. Robinson's powerful vocals and the song's relentless rhythm make 'Turn The Beat Around' an enduring anthem of the disco era, celebrating the unifying and transformative power of music.