About The Song
Mary Chapin Carpenter’s “Down at the Twist and Shout” Celebrates Cajun Culture and Dance
Mary Chapin Carpenter’s “Down at the Twist and Shout” is a lively country song that immerses listeners in the vibrant atmosphere of a Cajun dance hall.
Release and Inspiration:
- Released in 1991 on the album “Shooting Straight in the Dark”
- The song was inspired by Carpenter’s visit to the real-life Twist & Shout dance hall in Bethesda, Maryland
Story and Themes:
The song follows the narrator’s experience at the Twist and Shout. They describe the music, the dancing, and the overall energy of the place.
- Celebration of Cajun Culture: The lyrics highlight the unique musical style, dance styles, and food associated with Cajun culture.
- The Joy of Dance: The song captures the infectious energy of a dance hall and the pleasure of moving to the music.
- Escape and Enjoyment: “Down at the Twist and Shout” offers a temporary escape from everyday worries and a chance to simply have fun.
Musical Style:
- The song features a fast and energetic tempo with prominent accordion, fiddle, and percussion, capturing the essence of Cajun music.
- Mary Chapin Carpenter’s vocals deliver the lyrics with a sense of excitement and enthusiasm.
- The song incorporates elements of country and Cajun music, creating a unique and infectious sound.
Impact and Legacy:
- “Down at the Twist and Shout” became a minor hit for Mary Chapin Carpenter, but it’s a beloved song among fans for its celebration of Cajun culture and the joy of dance.
- The song helped introduce a wider audience to Cajun music and its rich traditions.
- It remains a popular choice for playlists featuring upbeat country music and songs about dancing.
Here are some additional resources you might find interesting:
- Listen to the song: You can find “Down at the Twist and Shout” by Mary Chapin Carpenter on various music streaming services or watch the official music video on YouTube: YouTube: [link to Mary Chapin Carpenter Down at the Twist and Shout]
- Learn more about Cajun Music: You can find online resources that discuss the history, instruments, and unique characteristics of Cajun music.
- Explore the Real Twist & Shout: While the original dance hall has closed, you can find information and photos online about the Twist & Shout in Bethesda, Maryland.
Video
Lyrics
[Chorus]
Saturday night and the moon is out
I want to head on over to the Twist and Shout
Find a two-step partner and a Cajun beat
When it lifts me up I’m going to find my feet
Out in the middle of a big dance floor
When I hear that fiddle want to beg for more
Going to dance to a band from Luzianne tonight
[Verse 1]
Well I never have wandered down to New Orleans
Never have drifted down a bayou stream
But I heard that music on the radio
And I swore some day I was going to go
Down Highway 10 past Lafayette
To Baton Rouge and I won’t forget
To send you a card with my regrets
Because I’m never going to come back home
[Chorus]
Saturday night and the moon is out
I want to head on over to the Twist and Shout
Find a two-step partner and a Cajun beat
When it lifts me up I’m going to find my feet
Out in the middle of a big dance floor
When I hear that fiddle want to beg for more
Going to dance to a band from Luzianne tonight
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[Verse 2]
They got a alligator stew and a crayfish pie
A Gulf storm blowing into town tonight
Living on the delta’s quite a show
They got hurricane parties every time it blows
But here up north it’s a cold cold rain
And there ain’t no cure for my blues today
Except when the paper says, “BeauSoleil is coming into town”
Baby let’s go down
[Chorus]
Saturday night and the moon is out
I want to head on over to the Twist and Shout
Find a two-step partner and a Cajun beat
When it lifts me up I’m going to find my feet
Out in the middle of a big dance floor
When I hear that fiddle want to beg for more
Going to dance to a band from Luzianne tonight
[Verse 3]
Bring your mama, bring your papa, bring your sister too
They got lots of music and lots of room
When they play you a waltz from 1910
You going to feel a little bit young again
Well you learned to dance with your rock and roll
You learned to swing with a do-si-do
But you learn to love at the fais-do-do
When you hear a little Jolie Blon