Johnson rag
Max Greger Lyrics
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Mud Black Bottom I got 'em
Lindy Hop Chop chop chop
Ch-ch-ch Charlotte Russe Turn on the juice
Hep Hep there goes the Johnson Rag
Hoy Hoy there goes the latest shag
Ho Ho it really isn't a gag
Jump Jump don't let your left foot drag
Jeep Jeep it's like a game of tag
Juke Juke it's even good for a stag
Jump jump and do the Johnson Rag
If your feelin' in the groove
It sends you out of the world
Funny how it makes you move
I don't wanna coax
But don't be a "Mokes"
Zig Zig Then add a Zig Zig Zag
Zoop Zoop just let your shoulders wag
Zoom Zoom and now it's right in the bag
Get hep And get happy with the Johnson Rag
Hep Hep There goes the Johnson Rag
Hoy Hoy there goes the latest shag
Ho Ho it really isn't a gag
Hep Hep There goes the Johnson Rag
Jump Jump Don't let your left foot drag
Jeep Jeep It's like a game of tag
Juke Juke It's even good for a stag
Jump jump And do the Johnson Rag
If your feelin' in the groove
It sends you out of the world
Funny how it makes you move
I don't wanna coax
But don't be a "Mokes"
Zig Zig then add a Zig Zig Zag
Zoop Zoop just let your shoulders wag
Zoom Zoom and now it's right in the bag
The theme of "Johnson Rag" is about a new and exciting dance, popular during the 1930s. The song mentions a variety of dance moves such as the Lindy Hop and the Charlotte Russe, inviting listeners to join the fun and let loose on the dance floor. The lyrics also describe the feelings of being caught up in the rhythm of the music and how it can transport the listener to a different world. The chorus repeats the words "Hep Hep there goes the Johnson Rag" and encourages dancers to keep moving and not to let their left foot drag.
The song captures the spirit of the era, which was defined by social dance and music. During the 1930s, the Great Depression was in full swing, and people were seeking ways to escape their troubles. Dance halls and big band music offered a way to do just that, and "Johnson Rag" became an instant hit. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics made it a crowd favorite across the country, and it remains a classic of the big band era to this day.
Line by Line Meaning
Johnson Flood Mississippi
Referring to the Mississippi River flooding caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, expressing the devastation and chaos caused by the disaster.
Mud Black Bottom I got 'em
The muddy and swampy conditions of the area are causing difficulties, and the singer is struggling to cope.
Lindy Hop Chop chop chop
Describing a popular dance move, with an emphasis on its rhythmic and percussive nature.
Ch-ch-ch Charlotte Russe Turn on the juice
Suggesting the need for an energy boost, possibly through the consumption of food or drink.
Hep Hep there goes the Johnson Rag
An exclamation of excitement and anticipation as the music begins.
Hoy Hoy there goes the latest shag
Acknowledging the latest dance trend and encouraging audience participation.
Ho Ho it really isn't a gag
Asserting that the music is to be taken seriously, despite its upbeat and entertaining nature.
Jump Jump don't let your left foot drag
Encouraging dancers to stay in rhythm and maintain their momentum.
Jeep Jeep it's like a game of tag
Describing the playful and competitive nature of the dance.
Juke Juke it's even good for a stag
Suggesting that the song and dance are appropriate for male-only gatherings, such as stag parties.
If your feelin' in the groove / It sends you out of the world / Funny how it makes you move
Describing the transformative power of music and dance, which can transport individuals beyond their everyday reality.
I don't wanna coax / But don't be a 'Mokes'
Advising against shyness or reluctance to dance.
Zig Zig Then add a Zig Zig Zag
Describing a specific dance move that involves changing direction repeatedly.
Zoop Zoop just let your shoulders wag
Suggesting a relaxed and carefree attitude to the dance.
Zoom Zoom and now it's right in the bag
Expressing satisfaction that the dance has been completed successfully.
Get hep And get happy with the Johnson Rag
Encouraging audience members to embrace the music and enjoy themselves.
Lyrics © CARLIN AMERICA INC
Written by: GUY HALL, HENRY KLEINKAUF
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind