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Roger Miller
About England Swings
"England Swings (Like a Pendulum Do)" is a 1965 country music song written and performed by Roger Miller. The single was Miller's eleventh hit on the US country chart where it peaked at number three. On the Billboard Hot 100, it peaked at number eight and was Miller's second number one on the Easy Listening chart. Petula Clark (from the Colour My World album) and Pat Boone both released cover versions in 1967. The title refers to Swinging London, a popular term for the progressive youth-centric cultural scene in London at the time. However, the lyrics do not convey any of this progressiveness, but mostly relate to stereotypical notions of traditional Britain, with references to "bobbies on bicycles", Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. The song also provides the structure for Miller's later song "Oo De Lally (Robin Hood and Little John)" for the film Robin Hood. The song is lambasted in 'How The Brits Rocked America' (BBC), where Miller is presented as mocking the youth culture in a cynical and commercial way.more »
- Year:
- 2004
- 1:53
- 21Views
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England swings like a pendulum doBobbies on bicycles, two by twoWestminster Abbey, the tower of Big BenThe rosy-red cheeks of the little childrenNow, if you huff and puff and you finally save enoughMoney you can take your family on a trip across the seaTake a tip before you take your trip, let me tell you where to goGo to Engeland, ohEngland swings like a pendulum doBobbies on bicycles, two by twoWestminster Abbey, the tower of Big BenThe rosy-red cheeks of the little childrenMama's old pajamas and your papa's mustacheFalling out the window sill, frolic in the grassTryin' to mock the way they talk fun but all in vainGaping at the dapper men with derby hats and canesEngland swings like a pendulum doBobbies on bicycles, two by twoWestminster Abbey, the tower of Big BenThe rosy-red cheeks of the little childrenEngland swings like a pendulum doBobbies on bicycles, two by twoWestminster Abbey, the tower of Big BenThe rosy-red cheeks of the little children
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Roger Miller
Roger Dean Miller (January 2, 1936 – October 25, 1992) was an American singer, songwriter, musician and actor, best known for his honky tonk-influenced novelty songs. His most recognized tunes included the chart-topping country/pop hits "King of the Road", "Dang Me" and "England Swings", all from the mid-1960s Nashville sound era. more »
6 fans
Genre »
, Rock
Style »
Country, Pop Rock
Sheet Music PDF Playlist
Written by: ROGER MILLER
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
12 facts about this song
Song Creation"England Swings" is a timeless country hit written and originally performed by Roger Miller. |
MisattributionDespite popular misconceptions, "England Swings" was never recorded or performed by British singer Petula Clark. It's often confused with her similar titled hit "Downtown." |
Release TimeThe song was released in 1965 on Miller's album, "The 3rd Time Around." |
Chart Performance"England Swings" placed No.8 on US Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1966. |
Song InspirationThe song was written as an homage to the Swinging London scene of the mid-1960s. |
Cultural ReferencesThe lyrics reference common British icons such as the "bobbies on bicycles," "Big Ben's tower," and "Westminster Abbey." |
Cover VersionsVarious artists have covered "England Swings," including Lisa Brokop and John Fogerty. |
Overseas SuccessDespite its American roots, the song also reached No.1 in the UK Singles Chart. |
Awards and AccoladesRoger Miller received six Grammy Awards in 1965 including for "England Swings" which took home the trophy for Best Country & Western Single. |
Use in MediaSongs like "England Swings" contributed greatly to Miller's popularity, and his music has been used in various movies and TV shows, including "Robin Hood" and "The Beverly Hillbillies." |
Lasting Impact"England Swings," with its catchy tune and whimsical lyrics, continues to be a staple on classic country radio stations. |
InductionRoger Miller was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1995, partly due to the success of songs like "England Swings." |
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