Friday, March 15, 2013

"Rock It" by Lipps, Inc.

Song#:  0282
Date:  08/02/1980
Debut:  83
Peak:  64
Weeks:  7
Genre:  Disco, Dance, Pop

Rock It by Lipps, Inc. on Grooveshark

Pop Bits:  So you just had a massive #1 platinum single. A follow-up song should pretty much be a slam-dunk, right? Not really. Sometimes it just doesn't translate into string of hits and for Lipps, Inc., that was the case. This song was originally the first single from their "Mouth to Mouth" album but it didn't get any attention. After the second single "Funkytown" hit it big, the label reverted back to "Rock It" for the follow-up song. When compared to "Funkytown," the song tanked and Lipps, Inc. never got back on the pop chart again. They are considered a one-hit wonder, but technically this minor chart song keeps them from that distinction.

ReduxReview:  Really, "Funkytown" is so distinctive what could you follow it up with? This song certainly did not fill the bill. Plus, having disco flying down the slide to oblivion certainly didn't help. This is an okay disco jam. There is just nothing as immediate and catchy as the elements that made up "Funkytown." Unfortunately, I think it was a no-win situation for the group. But they did last for three more albums and a few dance hits.

ReduxRating:  4/10

Trivia:  Guitarist David Rivkin was part of the studio group that became Lipps, Inc. Although his name may not be familiar to most, anyone who is a big fan of Prince will know him better as David Z. He worked with Prince on some of his recordings and his brother Bobby Z. was the original drummer in Prince's band The Revolution. David Z. also produced the Fine Young Cannibal's #1 hit "She Drives Me Crazy."

1 comment:

  1. This song has a hook that reminded me of this great old game for the Atari called "M.U.L.E." which was about strategy/economics. Made me laugh. If you want to hear what it sounds like: