About the song
“Hang On Sloopy,” originally titled “My Girl Sloopy,” emerged as a vibrant anthem in the mid-1960s, capturing the hearts of music enthusiasts with its infectious rhythm and rebellious spirit. Penned by Wes Farrell and Bert Berns, the song first found its voice through the Vibrations, a rhythm and blues vocal group whose 1964 rendition marked its initial debut. Released by Atlantic Records, the single climbed to No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100, laying the foundation for its enduring popularity.
However, it was the McCoys’ electrifying interpretation that truly propelled “Hang On Sloopy” to iconic status. In 1965, under the guidance of producers Bob Feldman, Jerry Goldstein, and Richard Gottehrer, the McCoys stormed the charts with their raucous garage rock rendition. Shot to the top spot on October 2, the McCoys’ version of “Hang On Sloopy” cemented its place in music history, becoming a hallmark of the burgeoning rock scene of the era.
The song’s journey didn’t stop there. Its infectious beat and memorable chorus made it a favorite among garage bands and mainstream acts alike. The Yardbirds, featuring Jeff Beck, lent their own interpretation, infusing it with their distinctive bluesy flair during the mid-1960s. This rendition showcased Beck’s virtuosity and the band’s innovative approach, setting a precedent for extended jams in studio recordings.
Beyond its musical evolution, “Hang On Sloopy” became synonymous with Ohio State University, resonating deeply within the state’s cultural fabric. Adopted as Ohio’s official rock song in 1985, its association with the university’s marching band during football games further solidified its status as a cultural touchstone. The tradition of chanting “O-H-I-O” during the song’s pauses became a ritual, symbolizing unity and pride among fans.
Over the years, the song has transcended generations and genres, finding new life through covers and adaptations across the globe. From the Ramsey Lewis Trio’s soulful rendition to international versions in Spanish and Portuguese, “Hang On Sloopy” continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
In essence, “Hang On Sloopy” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of music to unite, inspire, and celebrate shared heritage. Its journey from humble beginnings to becoming a state and university anthem underscores its timeless appeal and cultural significance, ensuring its place in the annals of rock and roll history.
Video
Lyrics
Hang on, Sloopy
Sloopy, hang on
Hang on, Sloopy
Sloopy, hang on
Sloopy lives in a very bad part of town (ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh)
And everybody, yeah, tries to put my Sloopy down (ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh)
Sloopy, I don’t care what your daddy do (ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh)
‘Cause you know, Sloopy, girl, I’m in love with you (ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh)
And so I say now
Hang on, Sloopy
Sloopy, hang on
Hang on, Sloopy
Sloopy, hang on
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Give it to ’em (yeah)
Sloopy, let your hair down, girl
Let it hang down on me (ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh)
Sloopy, let your hair down, girl
Let it hang down on me, yeah, yeah (ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh)
Come on, Sloopy (come on, come on)
Well, come on, Sloopy (come on, come on)
Well, come on, Sloopy (come on, come on)
Well, come on, Sloopy (come on, come on)
Well, it feels so good (come on, come on)
You know, it feels so good (come on, come on)
Oh, shake it, shake it, shake it, Sloopy (come on, come on)
Oh, shake it, shake it, shake it, yeah (come on, come on)
Ohh
Hang on, Sloopy
Sloopy, hang on
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Hang on, Sloopy
Sloopy, hang on
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Hang on, Sloopy
Sloopy, hang on