Walk The Dinosaur

“Walk The Dinosaur” by Was (Not Was) is a playful and surreal song that blends prehistoric imagery with modern pop culture references. The repetitive and catchy chorus, “Open the door, get on the floor, everybody walk the dinosaur,” invites listeners to join in a whimsical dance that transcends time and space. The song’s lyrics are filled with vivid and bizarre scenes, such as lighting a cigarette forty million years ago, watching Miami Vice, and meeting someone painting buffalo in a cave. These anachronistic elements create a dreamlike narrative that blurs the lines between past and present.

The song’s verses are rich with metaphorical content. The act of “walking the dinosaur” can be interpreted as a metaphor for embracing one’s primal instincts and connecting with a more ancient, untamed part of oneself. The imagery of splitting a rattlesnake and dancing beneath the stars suggests a celebration of life’s raw and wild aspects. The dream sequence involving New York, roasting blue pork, and Elvis healing lepers adds a layer of absurdity and humor, highlighting the song’s playful nature.

The shift in the chorus from “walk the dinosaur” to “kill the dinosaur” introduces a darker tone. This change could symbolize the end of an era or the destruction of something old to make way for the new. The “shadow from the sky” and the “mighty lion’s roar” evoke a sense of impending doom, possibly referencing the extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs. Despite the darker undertones, the song maintains its upbeat and energetic rhythm, making it a fun and engaging listen.

Overall, “Walk The Dinosaur” is a quirky and imaginative song that combines humor, nostalgia, and a touch of existential reflection. Its blend of catchy beats and surreal lyrics makes it a memorable and entertaining piece that invites listeners to dance through time and embrace the absurdity of life.