About the song
“Grease,” the iconic song written by Barry Gibb and performed by Frankie Valli, has solidified its place in pop culture as the energetic anthem of the 1978 musical film of the same name. This song, released in May 1978, serves as both the opening and closing track of the film’s soundtrack, encapsulating the essence of the ‘greaser’ lifestyle that dominated the 1950s American youth culture.
Originally commissioned by Robert Stigwood for the film adaptation of the hit stage musical “Grease,” the song was a departure from the show’s original title track penned by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Barry Gibb, known for his work with the Bee Gees, brought his distinct musical style to “Grease,” infusing it with a disco-inspired beat and contemporary 1970s flair, which was somewhat discordant with the film’s nostalgic setting.
Recording sessions for “Grease” featured Peter Frampton on guitar alongside Gibb himself providing backing vocals, highlighting the collaborative effort behind its creation. Frankie Valli, chosen for his vocal similarity to Barry Gibb and his status as a respected singer from the pre-British Invasion era, delivered a spirited performance despite personal health challenges at the time.
Upon release, “Grease” soared to the top of the charts, becoming a number-one single in the United States and a commercial success globally, selling over seven million copies. Its popularity marked a significant milestone for Frankie Valli, who secured a new record deal following the song’s release.
Critically, “Grease” received mixed reviews for its anachronistic blend of disco elements with a ’50s and ’60s narrative backdrop. Director Randal Kleiser initially opposed the inclusion of new songs like “Grease,” citing musical and thematic incongruences with the film’s era, yet the song’s infectious energy ultimately won over audiences and critics alike.
Over the years, “Grease” has endured as a cultural touchstone, its catchy chorus and lively rhythm ensuring its continued presence in musical retrospectives and popular media. The song’s legacy extends beyond its initial success, with subsequent performances and adaptations ensuring its place in the pantheon of timeless musical classics.
In conclusion, “Grease” remains not just a song but a vibrant snapshot of musical history, blending the talents of Barry Gibb, Frankie Valli, and an era-defining film to create an enduring emblem of nostalgia and celebration. Its success underscores its status as more than a soundtrack hit but a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
I solve my problems, and I see the light
We got a lovin’ thing, we gotta feed it right
There ain’t no danger we can go too far
We start believing now that we can be who we are
Grease is the word
They think our love is just a growing pain
Why don’t they understand, it’s just a crying shame
Their lips are lying, only real is real
We stop the fight right now, we got to be what we feel
Grease is the word
It’s got a groove, it’s got a meaning
Grease is the time, is the place, is the motion
Grease is the way we are feeling
We take the pressure and we throw away
Conventionality belongs to yesterday
There is a chance that we can make it so far
We start believing now that we can be who we are
Grease is the word
It’s got a groove, it’s got a meaning
Grease is the time, is the place, is the motion
Now, grease is the way we are feeling
This is a life of illusion
Wrapped up in trouble
Laced with confusion
What we doing here?
We take the pressure and we throw away
Conventionality belongs to yesterday
There is a chance that we can make it so far
We start believing now that we can be who we are
Grease is the word
It’s got a groove, it’s got a meaning
Grease is the time, is the place, is the motion
Now, grease is the way we are feeling
It’s got a groove, it’s got a meaning
Grease is the time, is the place, is the motion
Now, grease is the way we are feeling
Grease is the word
Is the word
Is the word
Is the word
Is the word
Is the word
Is the word
Is the word
Is the word
Is the word
Is the word