The Oogum Boogum Song – Brenton Wood

About the Song

Brenton Wood’s 1965 hit, “The Oogum Boogum Song,” is a delightful anomaly in the world of pop music. It lacks the profound lyrics or complex melodies often associated with classic songs, yet it has captured the hearts and memories of listeners for over five decades. Here’s a closer look at what makes this seemingly simple song so enduring.
Catchy Melody and Infectious Hook: The song’s strength lies in its undeniable groove. The repetitive piano riff and steady beat create an irresistible invitation to move. The nonsensical titular hook, “Oogum Boogum,” becomes a playful and instantly memorable refrain. It’s a prime example of “bubblegum pop,” a genre known for its catchy melodies and lighthearted themes, perfect for carefree dancing and summertime fun.

Fashionable References: The lyrics offer a playful glimpse into mid-1960s fashion. Lines like “And you wear that cute mini skirt / With your brother’s sloppy shirt” paint a picture of a specific time period, making the song a nostalgic trip for those who lived through that era. Younger listeners, however, can still appreciate the humor and carefree spirit of the song’s references.
Nonsense Lyrics with Hidden Meaning: While the lyrics on the surface seem nonsensical, Brenton Wood himself has revealed a deeper meaning. He disliked the song his record company initially presented and rewrote it, replacing the original title, “Casting My Spell on You,” with the nonsensical “Oogum Boogum” as his version of “abracadabra.” This playful rebellion adds a layer of wit to the song, making it even more endearing.

Enduring Legacy: Despite its simplicity, “The Oogum Boogum Song” has transcended its time. It has been covered by numerous artists, sampled in hip-hop tracks, and featured in various films and television shows. The song’s infectious energy and playful spirit continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
“The Oogum Boogum Song” serves as a reminder that music doesn’t always need profound lyrics or complex arrangements to be enjoyable. Sometimes, a catchy melody, a playful hook, and a touch of rebellion are all it takes to create a song that stays with us for years to come.

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Lyrics: The Oogum Boogum Song

Oogum oogum boogum boogum
boogum now baby you’re castin’ your spell on me
A-I say, “Oogum oogum boogum boogum
boogum now baby you’re castin’ you’re spell on me”
You got me doin’ funny things like a clown
A-just look at me
When you wear your high heeled boots with your hip hugger suit, huh
its all right, you’re outta sight
and you wear that cute mini skirt with your brother’s sloppy shirt, huh
A-I admit it, girl that I can dig it
Well then I say
Oogum oogum boogum boogum
boogum now baby you’re castin’ your spell on me
A-I say, “Oogum oogum boogum boogum
boogum now baby you’re castin’ your spell on me”
You got me doin’ funny things like a clown
A-just look at me
When you wear your bell bottom pants
I just stand there in a trance, huh
I can’t move, you’re in the groove
would you believe little girl that I am crazy ’bout you, huh
now go on with your bad self
(Ooh)
Ooh, ooh, my my my baby’s got these spells on me
Ooh, ooh, ooh now mercy, mercy on me
Huh, all right
When you wear those big earrings, long hair, and things
you got style, girl, that sure is wild
and you wear that cute trench coat and you’re standin’ and posin’
you got soul, you got too much soul
I just say who got the blues say who got the blues
say who got the blues now castin’ your spell on me
Well I say, “Who got the blues say who got the blues…”

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