It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing
Harry Roy & His Orchestra Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

It don't mean a thing
If it ain't got that swing
(doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah
Doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah)
It don't mean a thing
All you got to do is sing
(doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah
Doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah)
It makes no diff'rence
If it's sweet or hot
Just give that rhythm
Ev'rything you got
Oh, it don't mean a thing
If it ain't got that swing




(doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah
Doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah)

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "It Don't Mean a Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing" by Harry Roy & His Orchestra highlight the importance of swing in music. The refrain "It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing" emphasizes that the essence of a good musical piece lies in its swing, in its ability to captivate listeners and make them want to move and groove to the rhythm. The repetition of "doo wah" in the background adds a playful and rhythmic element, driving home the message of the song.


The song suggests that swing is a vital element that can elevate a musical composition. It doesn't matter what style or tempo the music is; as long as it has that swing, it can captivate and engage the audience. The line "All you got to do is sing" implies that as long as the music has the swing, all one needs to do is enjoy and immerse themselves in the rhythm, whether as a performer or a listener.


The lyrics also hint at the idea that swing is a universal language that transcends genres or preferences. Whether the music is sweet or hot, what truly matters is the presence of that infectious swing that can make listeners tap their feet and nod their heads in appreciation. The call to "Just give that rhythm everything you got" encourages musicians to infuse their music with energy and passion, ensuring that the swing is unmistakably present.


In conclusion, "It Don't Mean a Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing" is a celebration of the intangible quality that makes music truly captivating and memorable. The song underscores the idea that beyond melody and lyrics, it is the swing, the groove, the irresistible rhythm that can truly capture the hearts of the audience. By emphasizing the importance of swing, the lyrics convey a message that transcends musical genres and eras, reminding us that in music, as in life, sometimes it is the intangible essence that truly matters.


Line by Line Meaning

It don't mean a thing
The importance is not present


If it ain't got that swing
Unless it has the right lively rhythm


(doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah
(rhythmic vocalization)


Doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah)
Rhythmic vocalization continued)


All you got to do is sing
All you need to do is express yourself vocally


It makes no diff'rence
It does not matter


If it's sweet or hot
Whether it is mellow or intense


Just give that rhythm
Simply provide that distinctive beat


Ev'rything you got
Give it your all


Oh, it don't mean a thing
Oh, the significance is nonexistent


If it ain't got that swing
Unless it has the right lively rhythm


(doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah
(rhythmic vocalization)


Doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah)
Rhythmic vocalization continued)




Lyrics © Kanjian Music, BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Capitol CMG Publishing
Written by: Duke Ellington, Irving Mills

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

Genre not found
Artist not found
Album not found
Song not found

More Versions