Originated from a surf rock group called the Crossfires, the Turtles delved into many genres such as breezy pop, psychedelic music, and folk rock. A precursor to the bubblegum pop of the late 60s and early 70s as well as a foil to the more self-consciously hip and "serious" acts of the era, the Turtles produced at least a dozen memorable, radio-friendly chart singles. Yet they remain best known for 1967's "Happy Together", which was their only chart-topping single.
The Turtles wound down their career in 1970.
The two prominent singers - Howard Kaylan ("Eddie") and Mark Volman ("Flo" a.k.a. "Phlorescent Leech") - collaborated with Frank Zappa for a short but very intensive period of one and a half years (between 1970-72) and were the cornerstone of what was known to be the Zappa "Vaudeville" band; two of the most famous achievements of that period being the albums Fillmore East – June 1971 and 200 Motels, the soundtrack of the film by the same name.
I'm Chief Kamanawanalea
The Turtles Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
(We're the Royal Macadamia Nuts.)
I'm Chief Kamanawanalea
(We're the Royal Macadamia Nuts.)
I'm Chief Kamanawanalea
(We're the Royal Macadamia Nuts.)
Aw'right
(Oh, yeah.)
(Oh, yeah.)
(Oh, yeah.)
(Oh, yeah.)
(Oh, yeah.)/I'm Chief Kamanawanalea
(We're the Royal Macadamia Nuts.)
I'm Chief Kamanawanalea
(We're the Royal Macadamia Nuts.)
Alright, now dance
C'mon, a'fore it's seven?
(We're the Royal Macadamia Nuts.)
(Oh, yeah.)
(Oh, yeah.)
(Oh, yeah.)
(Oh, yeah.)
The Turtles' song "I'm Chief Kamanawanalea" is a playful, upbeat track that expresses a sense of enjoyment and fun. The repeated chorus line of "I'm Chief Kamanawanalea, we're the Royal Macadamia Nuts" introduces the playful nature of the song, with the singer adopting the persona of a chief of the Royal Macadamia Nuts tribe.
The song's lyrics are largely nonsensical, with phrases like "aw'right" and "woot" adding to the playful tone. The line "alright, now dance, c'mon a'fore it's seven?" adds to the sense of frivolity, with the suggestion that there is a time limit on when the dancing should take place.
Despite the lack of clear meaning, the song's upbeat tempo and playful lyrics create a sense of joy and celebration. It is a highly energetic song that is designed to make people want to get up and dance and have fun.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm Chief Kamanawanalea
I am the leader and hold the highest position in power and authority.
(We're the Royal Macadamia Nuts.)
My tribe and I belong to the group known as the Royal Macadamia Nuts.
Aw'right
Okay, I approve or agree to something.
Woot!
An expression of excitement, enthusiasm or triumph.
(Oh, yeah.)
An expression of confirmation or agreement.
Alright, now dance
Let's enjoy ourselves by moving rhythmically to music.
C'mon, a'fore it's seven?
Come on let's dance and celebrate before it's too late and the night ends.
Contributed by Ella B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.