“Move On Up,” released in 1970 as part of Curtis Mayfield’s debut solo album Curtis, is one of the most uplifting and empowering songs in soul and funk music history. With its energetic horns, driving rhythm, and inspiring message, “Move On Up” has become an anthem for perseverance and self-determination. The song showcases Mayfield’s ability to blend social consciousness with infectious grooves, making it a timeless classic.
About The Song
- Lyrics Interpretation: The lyrics of “Move On Up” are a call for resilience, perseverance, and hope in the face of adversity. Mayfield encourages listeners to keep striving for their goals, no matter the obstacles, with lines like “Take nothing less than the supreme best, do not obey for most people say ’cause you can pass the test.” The song is an anthem of optimism, urging people to rise above challenges and keep pushing forward, which resonated deeply during the social and political struggles of the early 1970s.
- Musical Composition: “Move On Up” features a vibrant arrangement of horns, a funky bass line, and a dynamic rhythm that gives the song its infectious energy. The extended version of the song runs over eight minutes, with instrumental breaks that showcase Mayfield’s sophisticated production and arrangement skills. The song blends elements of soul, funk, and jazz, creating a rich and uplifting sound that perfectly complements its message of determination and progress.
- Cultural Impact: “Move On Up” became a powerful anthem during the civil rights movement, speaking to the desire for social change, equality, and empowerment. The song’s message of resilience and hope resonated with audiences, particularly African Americans, who saw the song as a rallying cry for progress and unity. Over the years, “Move On Up” has continued to inspire generations, being featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, and used in political campaigns and social justice movements.
- Live Performances: Curtis Mayfield’s live performances of “Move On Up” were electrifying, capturing the energy and passion of the song. Mayfield, known for his charismatic stage presence, often used the song to engage his audience, turning live performances into moments of shared celebration and motivation. The infectious rhythm and powerful lyrics made it a standout track in his live shows, leaving audiences energized and inspired.
- Song Legacy: “Move On Up” has become one of Curtis Mayfield’s signature songs and is widely regarded as one of the greatest soul songs of all time. Its positive message and timeless sound have made it a favorite across generations. The song has been sampled by numerous artists, including Kanye West in his hit song “Touch the Sky,” further cementing its place in popular culture. “Move On Up” remains a symbol of hope and progress, continuing to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.
“Move On Up” stands as a testament to Curtis Mayfield’s genius as a songwriter and producer. Its message of resilience, coupled with its dynamic musical composition, has made it an enduring anthem for progress and empowerment, solidifying its place in the history of soul music.
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Lyric
Hush now child
And don’t you cry
Your folks might understand you
By and by
Just move on up
Towards your destination
Though you may find, from time to time
Complication
Bite your lip
And take a trip
Though there may be wet road ahead
And you cannot slip
Just move on up
For peace you will find
Into the steeple of beautiful people
Where there’s only one kind
So hush now, child
And don’t you cry
Your folks might understand you
By and by
Move on up
And keep on wishin’
Remember your dream is your only scheme
So keep on pushin’
Take nothing less
Than the supreme best
Do not obey rumors people say
‘Cause you can pass the test
Just move on up
To a greater day
With just a little faith, if you put your mind to it
You can surely do it