Known as "Van the Man" by his fans, Morrison first rose to prominence as the lead singer of the Northern Irish band Them, writing their 1964 hit "Gloria". A few years later, Morrison left the band for a successful solo career, starting with the album Astral Weeks.
Morrison has pursued an idiosyncratic musical path. Much of his music is tightly structured around the conventions of American soul and R&B, such as the popular singles "Brown Eyed Girl", "Moondance", "Domino", and "Wild Night". An equal part of his catalogue consists of lengthy, loosely connected, spiritually inspired musical journeys that show the influence of Celtic tradition, jazz, and stream-of-consciousness narrative, such as his classic album Astral Weeks and lesser known works such as Veedon Fleece and Common One. The two strains together are sometimes referred to as "Celtic Soul," and Morrison rejects the characterization of his genre of music as Rock, citing Elvis Presley as a non-influence.
He continues to perform regularly and achieved his highest U.S. chart position (number ten on the Billboard 200) with his 2008 album, Keep It Simple.
Mambo
Van Morrison Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
La-la-la mambo, mambo, mambo.
Mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo.
Mambo, mambo, mambo.
Chicka, yeah.
Mambo, mambo.
Mambo, mambo, mambo.
Mambo, mambo, mambo.
La mambo.
La-la, mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo.
Van Morrison's song "Mambo" is a lively tune that seems to be mostly focused on the repetition of the word mambo. The repeated phrase throughout the song, "la-la-la-la mambo" suggests that the song is asking the listener to move and dance along with the beat of the song. The phrase "chicka, yeah" also adds to this sense of movement and energy, emphasizing the upbeat and bouncy nature of the song.
The song takes inspiration from the mambo, a dance style that originated in Cuba in the 1940s and became popular in the United States in the 1950s. The song's repetitive lyrics and upbeat rhythm echo the energy and vibrancy of this dance genre. Overall, the song seems to be encouraging the listener to let loose and enjoy the moment.
Line by Line Meaning
La-la-la-la mambo.
The sounds and rhythms of the mambo fill the air, invoking a carefree and lively atmosphere.
La-la-la mambo, mambo, mambo.
The energy and excitement of the mambo is felt deeply, conveying a sense of passion and celebration.
Mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo.
The repetition of the word 'mambo' emphasizes the central importance of this lively and expressive musical style.
Mambo, mambo, mambo.
The simple repetition of 'mambo' serves to further highlight the exuberance and joy associated with this type of music.
Chicka, yeah.
This interjection may be interpreted as an expression of approval or excitement, adding to the overall liveliness of the song.
Mambo, mambo.
The repetition of 'mambo' continues, indicating the enduring hold that this lively music has over those who experience it.
Mambo, mambo, mambo.
The repetition conveys a sense of the irresistible rhythm and beat of the mambo - something that could be both comforting and exciting.
Mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo.
As the repetition continues, it becomes clear that the mambo is a source of great inspiration for the artist, and a valued and beloved part of life.
La mambo.
The use of the definite article 'la' emphasizes that this mambo is a specific and special kind of music, evoking memories and emotions associated with the genre.
La-la, mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo, mambo.
The repetition of the word 'mambo' along with the 'la-la' sounds serve to further reinforce the upbeat and celebratory tone of the song.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: ENRIQUE GARCIA, HECTOR ALMAGUER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind