Doo Uap Doo Uap Doo Uap
Gabin Lyrics


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It don't mean a thing
If it ain't got that swing
It don't mean a thing
If it ain't got that swing




Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Gabin's song "Doo Uap Doo Uap Doo Uap" are simple, yet powerful in their message. The repeated phrase "It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing" is a nod to the importance of rhythm and groove in music. The phrase was originally coined by Duke Ellington in his 1931 jazz standard "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)", which urges listeners to loosen up and feel the music. The song took on a broader cultural significance during the swing era of the 1930s and 1940s, as a symbol of the joyful, carefree spirit of the music and dance style.


In Gabin's interpretation of the phrase, the emphasis is on the "swing" - that rhythmic quality that makes music irresistible to dance to. The repetition of the phrase makes it clear that, no matter how skilled the musician or how technically impressive the performance, if the music doesn't have that infectious, toe-tapping quality, it won't connect with an audience in the same way. The simplicity of the lyrics ensures that they are instantly memorable and easy to sing along to - a testament to the enduring power of swing in musical culture.


Overall, the lyrics to "Doo Uap Doo Uap Doo Uap" convey a timeless message about the importance of rhythm and groove in music. Whether you're listening to a classic jazz standard, a contemporary dance track, or Gabin's own fusion of genres, the principle remains the same: if the music doesn't have that swing, it might as well not exist.


Line by Line Meaning

It don't mean a thing
Something is not important or valuable


If it ain't got that swing
Unless it has a lively and upbeat rhythm or energy


It don't mean a thing
Reiterating that something is not important or valuable


If it ain't got that swing
If it lacks a lively and upbeat rhythm or energy




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: DUKE ELLINGTON, IRVING MILLS

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@Miendos

This track deserved more success than it got.

@MarioBeart

This was a huge hit back when I was a kid, I remember watching them on Top of the Pops. Great track and first studio album!

@michaelsinclair2731

This was on Top of The Pops?! 😮😮

@standardofexcellence

What year?

@MarioBeart

@@michaelsinclair2731 Yes! I remember the black woman in playback in front of a big vintage/old school microphone and the band behind.

@robertbrenton6113

Low key classic 2000s jam right here.

@giambattistasayuri7534

My fav of all time. Always in my car playlist💗💗💗

@80MoreorLess

Spettacolare, un pezzo che non morirà, una cover fatta molto bene

@hoodlambo

I remember hearing this in a Pantene commercial when I was a kid, thought I would never hear it again

@javonfew8149

This just brightened my day

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