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Music Video

Cool Jerk Lyrics – The Capitols



Soundtrack Album: Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted
Cool Jerk Text
Cool jerk
Cool jerk
Cool jerk

We know a cat who can really do the cool jerk
We know a cat who can really do the cool jerk
Well, this cat they're talkin' about, I wonder who could it be
'Cause I know that I'm the heaviest cat
The heaviest cat you ever did see

When they see me walkin' down the street, (Hey, hey, hey.)
When the fellas want to speak, (Hey, hey, hey.)
On their faces, they wear a silly smirk
'Cause they know I'm the king of a cool jerk. Whoooo!

Cool jerk
Cool jerk
(Cool jerk. Uh huh.) Ha, ha, ha!
Look at them guys lookin' at me like I'm a fool
But ahhh, deep down inside, they know I'm cool
I said now, I said now the moment of truth has finally come when I have to show you some, some of that cool jerk
Now give me a little bit of drums by himself there

Now give me a little bass with those 88's
Awwww, you're cookin', baby!
Mmmm, you're smokin'!
Mmmm, mmmm, mmmm
Now everybody, I wanna hear you all
Ahhh, can you do it? Can you do it?
Can you do it? Can you do it?
Can you do it? Can you do it?
Can you do it? Can you do the cool jerk?
Come on, people
(Cool jerk.) Hey, hey

When they see me walkin' down the street, (Hey, hey, hey.)
They think twice and then they speak. (Hey, hey, hey.)
On their faces, they don't wear a smirk
'Cause they know I'm the king of a cool jerk. Whoooo!

Cool jerk
(Cool jerk.) Come on, people
(Cool jerk.) Can you do it now?
(Cool jerk.) Come on people
Can you do it? Can you do it?
Can you do it? Can you do it?


Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted Album Cover

Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted

Soundtrack Lyrics for Cartoon, 2012

Track Listing


December, 30th 2024

"Cool Jerk" by The Capitols: Song Details and Overview

The Capitols, Cool Jerk lyrics
The Capitols performing 'Cool Jerk' in the iconic music video.
  • Producer: Ollie McLaughlin
  • Writer: Donald Storball
  • Release Date: 1966
  • Album: Dance the Cool Jerk
  • Genres: Pop, R&B
  • Label: Karen Records
  • Mood: Energetic, Fun

Exploring the meaning of "Cool Jerk"

The Capitols performing Cool Jerk live
Performance of 'Cool Jerk' by The Capitols in a vibrant setting.
"Cool Jerk" is a spirited, rhythmic anthem that showcases the cultural vibrance of the mid-1960s. It humorously celebrates individuality and confidence, particularly through dance. The lyrics center around the narrator’s claim to be the king of the "Cool Jerk," a popular dance move that was sweeping clubs at the time. This playful boast is punctuated by the lively call-and-response chorus, encouraging listeners to join the fun.

The Origins of the Cool Jerk Dance

The term "Cool Jerk" refers to a dance derived from the "jerk" style, adjusted to appeal to a wider, more diverse audience. The Capitols brought this underground dance move into mainstream consciousness, pairing it with infectious beats and a fun, irreverent tone.

Musical Composition

The song's distinctive beat and instrumentation—including its catchy drum and bass breakdown—create an irresistible rhythm. Lines such as "Now give me a little bit of drums by himself there" invite listeners into an intimate, live-performance vibe, amplifying the song's energy.

Lyrical Playfulness

With self-assured lines like "I'm the heaviest cat you ever did see," the song exudes charisma and humor. It also mirrors the spirit of its era, a time when music and dance were key to self-expression and social gatherings.

Community and Joy

"Cool Jerk" isn't just a song; it's an invitation. The repeated question, "Can you do it?" engages the audience, making the song feel like a communal experience that transcends the confines of a traditional single.

Songs similar to "Cool Jerk"

Thumbnail from Cool Jerk lyric video by The Capitols
Screenshot from the 'Cool Jerk' music video, capturing the dynamic energy of the track.
  1. "Land of 1000 Dances" by Wilson Pickett: With its infectious rhythm and call-and-response style, this track embodies a similar dance-driven energy as "Cool Jerk." The focus on community participation aligns the two songs.
  2. "The Loco-Motion" by Little Eva: Like "Cool Jerk," this track popularized a dance craze, combining catchy lyrics with an upbeat tempo to inspire movement and joy.
  3. "Do You Love Me" by The Contours: This song shares a playful tone and a focus on dance as a form of self-expression, making it a natural counterpart to The Capitols' hit.
  4. "Twist and Shout" by The Isley Brothers: Both songs encourage active engagement with their audiences, blending irresistible beats with anthemic vocals.
  5. "Shotgun" by Junior Walker & The All Stars: Featuring dynamic instrumentation and a groove-heavy beat, this track echoes the rhythmic appeal of "Cool Jerk."
  6. "Dancing in the Street" by Martha Reeves & The Vandellas: With its celebration of dance and togetherness, this iconic track mirrors the communal spirit of "Cool Jerk."
  7. "Shake a Tail Feather" by The Five Du-Tones: Known for its high-energy rhythm and dance-focused lyrics, this song shares thematic and musical similarities with The Capitols' classic.
  8. "Mashed Potato Time" by Dee Dee Sharp: This track also highlights a dance craze, linking its upbeat tone and playful energy to "Cool Jerk."

Chart Performance and Awards

Scene from Cool Jerk track by The Capitols
Visual effects scene from 'Cool Jerk,' capturing the lively essence of the song.
"Cool Jerk" reached #2 on the American R&B Singles chart, #7 on the Billboard Hot 100, and #9 on the Canadian Singles chart. Its widespread success not only solidified The Capitols' place in music history but also cemented the Cool Jerk dance as a cultural phenomenon.
"'Cool Jerk' is an anthem for anyone who believes in the power of dance to bring people together."
- Music Historian

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