Originally recorded in 1961, “Twist and Shout” is a Rock and Roll song written by Phil Medley and Bert Berns (eventually credited as “Bert Russell”).

Fun Facts:

• While originally recorded by the Top Notes, the song didn’t become the success it is today until it was reworked by the Isley Brothers in 1962. 
• While recording the song, the Isley Brothers’ Berns (Bert Russell) assumed the role of producer. This new version of the song was an arrangement that infused the song with a “gospel-fired soul passion.” 
• “Twist and Shout” became the Isley Brothers’ first single to the top of the charts. It hit a Top 20 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.
• The song had a peak position of No. 3 on the U.S. Cash Box Rhythm & Blues Singles.

• The Beatles’ rendition of “Twist and Shout” contained John Lennon’s vocals.  However, the singer initially felt “ashamed” of his performance on the song.
• The Isley Brothers’ version, with Ronald Isley on lead vocals, reached No. 2 on the US R&B charts.
• “Twist and Shout” became a huge hit for The Beatles, who ended many of their concerts with it. Because of the song’s popularity, the Isley Brothers also gained notoriety in Britain. 
• This original version was produced by Phil Spector.
• Although Phil Spector met unsuccess when he produced the first version of “Twist And Shout,” he found success with The Beatles and their album Let It Be. In only 3 years from the original “Twist and Shout,” Spector became the most famous producer in the business. 

Lyrics:

(LyricFind)

Well, shake it up, baby, now

Twist and shout

Come on, come on, come, come on, baby, now

Come on and work it on out

Well, work it on out, honey

You know you look so good

You know you got me goin’ now

Just like I knew you would

Well, shake it up, baby, now

Twist and shout

Come on, come on, come, come on, baby, now

Come on and work it on out

You know you twist, little girl

You know you twist so fine

Come on and twist a little closer now

And let me know that you’re mine, woo

Ah, ah, ah, ah, wow

Baby, now

Twist and shout

Come on, come on, come, come on, baby, now

Come on and work it on out

You know you twist, little girl

You know you twist so fine

Come on and twist a little closer now

And let me know that you’re mine

Well, shake it, shake it, shake it, baby, now

Well, shake it, shake it, shake it, baby, now

Well, shake it, shake it, shake it, baby, now

Ah, ah, ah, ah