"Shake Some Action" is the title track of the Flamin' Groovies’ 1976 album and stands as a cornerstone of power pop, bridging the gap between the British Invasion sound of the 1960s and the emerging punk and new wave scenes of the mid-1970s. Written by guitarist Cyril Jordan and vocalist Chris Wilson, the song became the band's signature tune and is widely regarded as a classic of its genre123.
Background and Recording
The Flamin' Groovies, originally formed in San Francisco in 1965, underwent a major transformation after the departure of original singer Roy Loney. With Chris Wilson joining as lead vocalist, the band shifted from their earlier blues and rockabilly influences to a more guitar-driven, retro power pop style that paid homage to the Beatles and The Who12. "Shake Some Action" was first recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales in 1972, but the song wasn’t released until the 1976 album, which was produced by Dave Edmunds142. Edmunds’ production sped up the tempo and emphasized the jangly guitars and vocal harmonies, helping the band achieve the Beatlesque sound they had long admired2.
Musical Style and Legacy
The song is celebrated for its jangly guitars, driving bass, infectious melody, and inspired vocals3. The arrangement features a descending lead guitar phrase overdubbed multiple times for a rich, layered effect2. The interplay between introspective verses and a rousing, anthemic chorus structures the song as a journey from self-doubt to confident resolve2. Lyrically, the track moves from uncertainty in love and life to a declaration of independence and self-determination, encapsulated in the chorus’s "shake some action if you want to be free"2.
"Shake Some Action" occupies a unique space between the fading era of classic rock and the rise of punk and new wave, influencing later acts in power pop, punk, and garage rock25. The song and album were particularly well-received in the UK, where the Groovies found a cult following, though they remained more underground in the US2.
Critical Reception and Influence
Critics have hailed "Shake Some Action" as one of the greatest power pop songs ever recorded, with its blend of retro style and modern energy3. The track’s influence is evident in the work of bands like Cheap Trick, The Cramps, and even punk and garage revivalists5. The song’s enduring appeal is also reflected in its frequent inclusion in film soundtracks, most notably in the 1995 movie Clueless2.
Key Facts Table
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Artist | Flamin' Groovies |
| Songwriters | Cyril Jordan, Chris Wilson |
| Album | Shake Some Action (1976) |
| Producer | Dave Edmunds |
| Genre | Power pop, rock, proto-punk |
| Notable Features | Jangly guitars, layered harmonies, anthemic chorus |
| Legacy | Power pop classic, influential on punk/new wave |
Summary
"Shake Some Action" is a shimmering, guitar-driven anthem that captures the Flamin' Groovies’ love for 1960s British rock while paving the way for the sounds of punk and power pop. Its timeless energy, melodic brilliance, and emotional uplift have made it a cult favorite and a defining track for anyone exploring the roots of modern alternative and indie rock123.
