I've Got to Be a Rug Cutter
Duke Ellington & His Orchestra; Ivie Anderson Lyrics

The song "I've Got To Be A Rug Cutter" by Duke Ellington & Teresa Brewer is a classic swing tune that is all about expressing the joy of dancing. The opening line sets the tone for the song, with the singer declaring that they "have to be a rug cutter" and "swing out in the groove". The term "rug cutter" was a popular term for a skilled dancer, particularly one who was adept at the new swing dances that were gaining popularity in the 1930s and 40s. The idea of being a good rug cutter was not just about showing off, but also about being part of a community, sharing in the joy and freedom of the dance.

The lyrics of the song are full of slang and wordplay that capture the exuberance of the swing era. The singer describes themselves as "un-trucky" (meaning they weren't good at dancing) but now they're "super-ducky" (meaning they're great at it). They're also looking to "cut back a figure", which means to dance in a stylish and impressive way. The reference to "Gate" is likely a nod to one of the most famous swing dancers of the time, Leroy "Slam" Stewart, who was known as "the mayor of Harlem" and who often performed with Duke Ellington.