About the song
“Poetry in Motion” stands as a quintessential hit from the early 1960s, capturing the zeitgeist of the era with its infectious melody and charming lyrics. Released in 1960 and performed by Johnny Tillotson, the song achieved remarkable success, topping the UK Singles Chart in January 1961 and making a significant impact in the US Billboard Hot 100, where it reached No. 2 in November 1960, narrowly missing the top spot due to Ray Charles’s enduring classic “Georgia on My Mind.”
The creation of “Poetry in Motion” is a testament to the power of everyday inspiration. Songwriters Paul Kaufman and Mike Anthony, who crafted the tune, drew their creative spark from a simple yet delightful observation: the sight of young ladies from a nearby school strolling past their window each afternoon. This daily spectacle inspired a melody that perfectly encapsulated the joy and lightheartedness of youthful romance. The duo’s vision was brought to life under the expert supervision of Bill Porter during a recording session in Nashville, Tennessee. The session featured an ensemble of talented musicians, including the renowned saxophonist Boots Randolph, pianist Floyd Cramer, and bassist Floyd “Lightning” Chance, whose contributions helped shape the song’s distinctive sound.
An alternative rendition of “Poetry in Motion,” featuring saxophonist King Curtis, was recorded earlier and later released by Bear Family Records in 2011, showcasing the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to inspire multiple interpretations. Tillotson’s version, however, remains the most celebrated, cementing its place as a beloved classic of the early 60s. The song’s charm continued to resonate over the years, as evidenced by its reissue in 1979, which further affirmed its lasting popularity and significance in the annals of pop music history.
Video
Lyrics
When I see my baby
What do I see
Poetry
Poetry in motion
Poetry in motion
Walkin’ by my side
Her lovely locomotion
Keeps my eyes open wide
Poetry in motion
See her gentle sway
A wave out on the ocean
Could never move that way
I love every movement
And there’s nothing I would change
She doesn’t need improvement
She’s much too nice to rearrange
Poetry in motion
Dancing close to me
A flower of devotion
A swaying gracefully
Whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa
Poetry in motion
See her gentle sway
A wave out on the ocean
Could never move that way
I love every movement
There’s nothing I would change
She doesn’t need improvement
She’s much too nice to rearrange
Poetry in motion
All that I adore
No number-nine love potion
Could make me love her more
Whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa