Although the main focus of the performance is taiko drumming, other traditional Japanese musical instruments such as fue and shamisen make an appearance on stage as do traditional dance and vocal performance. Kodō’s performance include pieces based on the traditional rhythms of regional Japan, pieces composed for Kodō by contemporary songwriters, and pieces written by Kodō members themselves. The numbers that Kodō performs can change from concert to concert. Kodō’s performance normally lasts about one hour and forty minutes.
In Japanese the word “Kodō” conveys two meanings: “heartbeat” the primal source of all rhythm and, read in a different way, the word can mean “children of the drum,” a reflection of Kodō’s desire to play their drums simply, with the heart of a child.
Kodō strives to both preserve and re-interpret traditional Japanese performing arts. From worldwide tours and research trips, Kodō brings back to Sado world music and experiences which now exert a strong influence on the group’s performances and compositions. They also collaborate with other artists and composers.
Since their debut at the Berlin Festival in 1981, Kodō have given over 2800 performances on all five continents, spending about a third of the year overseas, a third touring in Japan and a third resting and preparing new material on Sado Island.
Sing Sing Sing
Kodo Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Now you're singin' with a swing
Sing sing sing, sing, everybody start to sing like dee dee dee, bah bah bah dah
Now you're singin' with a swing.
When the music goes around,
Everybody's goes go to town.
But here is one thing you should know
Now you're singin with a swing
Swing swing swing swing, listen to the trumpet swing
Blow blow blow blow, listen to the trombones go
When the music goes around,
Everybody's goes go to town.
But here is one thing you should know
Sing sing sing sing everybody start to sing like dee dee dee, bah bah bah dah
Everybody go!
Sing sing sing sing everybody start to sing like dee dee dee, bah bah bah dah
Now you're singin with a swing
Sing sing sing sing everybody start to sing like dee dee dee, bah bah bah dah
Now you're singin with a swing
Swing swing swing, everybody start to swing
Now your swingin while you sing
When the music goes around, everybody goes to town
Just relax and take is slow
SIng sing
Start singing, keep swinging
Now you're singing with a swing
Kodo's song "Sing Sing Sing" is an upbeat and lively tune with a clear message about the joy of singing and swinging. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, encouraging everyone to join in and start singing with a swing. The use of onomatopoeic sounds like "dee dee dee" and "bah bah bah dah" add to the catchy nature of the song and make it easy to remember.
The chorus repeats the line "now you're singin' with a swing," which is a reference to the sense of rhythm and movement that characterizes swing music. The phrase "swing" can also be interpreted to mean letting loose and having a good time, which fits with the overall mood of the song. The verses describe how music brings people together, with the line "when the music goes around, everybody goes to town." The song also reminds us to "just relax and take it slow," implying that singing and swinging are meant to be enjoyed and not taken too seriously.
Overall, Kodo's "Sing Sing Sing" is a joyful celebration of music and community. It encourages us to let go of our inhibitions and join in the fun, whether we are seasoned musicians or complete beginners.
Line by Line Meaning
Sing, sing, sing, sing everybody start to sing like dee dee dee, bah bah bah dah
Let's all begin to sing in a carefree and joyful manner, using simple but lively sounds
Now you're singin' with a swing
By following the upbeat and energetic rhythm, everyone is now singing with added flair and style
When the music goes around, Everybody's goes go to town
When the music starts playing, everyone gets hyped up and goes wild with excitement
But here is one thing you should know
However, there is something important to remember
Swing swing swing swing, listen to the trumpet swing
Listen to the sweet sound of the trumpet playing in a lively and cheerful fashion
Blow blow blow blow, listen to the trombones go
Hear the sound of the slide trombone as it adds robustness and depth to the music
Everybody go!
Let's all participate and be part of the musical celebration and festivity
Swing swing swing, everybody start to swing
With the vibrant and upbeat tempo, everyone now starts swinging and dancing to the melody
Now your swingin while you sing
As you join in and sing along, you also start swaying and grooving to the rhythm
Just relax and take it slow
Don't worry too much and just enjoy the moment, letting the music take over and guide you
Sing sing, start singing, keep swinging, Now you're singing with a swing
Let's continue to sing and move along to the music, keeping the lively and upbeat vibe throughout
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: LOUIS PRIMA
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind