Johnson Rag
Hank Thompson And His Brazos Valley Boys Lyrics

The lyrics to "Johnson Rag" by Hank Thompson and His Brazos Valley Boys paint a vivid picture of a lively dance scene set to an energetic ragtime melody. The references to Johnson, Flood, Mississippi, and Mud Black Bottom evoke a sense of place and time, possibly referring to specific dance styles or locations. The mention of Lindy Hop and Charlotte Russe suggests a fast-paced, dynamic dance routine, with the repetition of "chop chop chop" emphasizing the frenetic energy and movement of the dance floor.

The chorus chants of "Hep Hep" and "Hoy Hoy" serve as rhythmic calls to action, encouraging listeners to join in and participate in the infectious rhythm of the Johnson Rag. The playful nature of the lyrics, with phrases like "Ho Ho it really isn't a gag," adds a sense of whimsy and fun to the song, inviting listeners to let loose and enjoy themselves in the moment.

The verses speak to the transformative power of music and dance, describing how the groove of the Johnson Rag can transport dancers to another world and compel them to move with joy and abandon. The admonition to "Jump Jump" and "Jeep Jeep" without letting one's foot drag suggests a sense of urgency and momentum, urging dancers to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

Ultimately, the lyrics of "Johnson Rag" celebrate the universal appeal of music and dance as a means of connection and expression. The song encourages listeners to embrace the rhythm, let go of inhibitions, and revel in the sheer delight of moving to the beat. It is a spirited ode to the joy and freedom found in the art of dance, capturing the essence of communal celebration and shared experience on the dance floor.