About the song
“Brick House,” a dynamic hit from the Commodores’ 1977 self-titled album (known as *Zoom* in the UK), remains a quintessential piece of funk and soul music. This single, which soared to number 5 on the U.S. charts and achieved a notable position at number 32 in the UK Singles Chart, exemplifies the band’s innovative approach to music during that era.
The song’s infectious rhythm and bold lyrics celebrate a confident, powerful woman, using a playful and vivid metaphor. According to Lionel Richie, one of the band’s key members, the title “Brick House” is a clever nod to the expression “built like a brick shithouse,” a colloquialism used to describe someone with a robust and impressive physique. This choice of title underscores the song’s theme of celebrating strength and confidence in an unapologetic manner.
Musically, “Brick House” is distinguished by its funky bass line, vibrant brass sections, and Richie’s distinctive vocal style. The song’s rhythm and groove create an irresistible energy, driving listeners to the dance floor. Its blend of rhythm and blues with funk elements showcases the Commodores’ ability to craft engaging, danceable tunes that resonate with audiences across different genres.
The impact of “Brick House” extends beyond its chart performance. It has become a cultural touchstone, frequently featured in films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its place as a classic anthem of empowerment and celebration. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its catchy melody, strong musical arrangement, and the confidence it radiates, making it a timeless favorite among fans of funk and soul music.
Video
lyrics
Ow, she’s a brick house
She’s mighty-mighty, just lettin’ it all hang out
She’s a brick house
That lady’s stacked and that’s a fact
Ain’t holding nothing back
Ow, she’s a brick house
Well put-together, everybody knows
This is how the story goes
She knows she got everything
That a woman needs to get a man, yeah, yeah
How can she lose with the stuff she use
Thirty-six, twenty-four, thirty-six oh what a winning hand
‘Cause she’s a brick house
She’s mighty-mighty, just lettin’ it all hang out
She’s a brick house
Ow, that lady stacked and that’s a fact
Ain’t holding nothing back
Ow, she’s a brick house
Yeah, she’s the one, the only one, built like an amazon
The clothes she wears, her sexy ways
Make an old man wish for younger days, yeah, yeah
She knows she’s built and knows how to please
Sure enough to knock a strong man to his knees
‘Cause she’s a brick house
Yeah, she’s mighty mighty, just lettin’ it all hang out
She’s a brick house
The lady’s stacked and that’s a fact
Ain’t holding nothing back
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down now
Brick house
Yeah, she’s mighty mighty, just lettin’ it all hang out
She’s a brick house
Yeah, she’s the one, the only one, built like an amazon, yeah
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it, shake it
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it down now
Shake it down, shake it down, shake it
Ow, a brick house