About the song
Manfred Mann, a name synonymous with British blues and rock, burst onto the scene in the early 1960s with a unique blend of influences that defied categorization. While their later work would delve into progressive rock and electronic experimentation, their debut single, “Doo Wah Diddy,” remains a timeless classic that showcased their early energy and versatility.
Released in 1963, “Doo Wah Diddy” was a cover of a song originally penned by Bobby Darin. However, Manfred Mann’s interpretation was far from a mere replication. Their arrangement, featuring a driving beat, catchy melody, and harmonica solos, transformed the tune into a high-energy anthem that resonated with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
The song’s infectious rhythm and simple, repetitive lyrics made it a perfect fit for the burgeoning British beat scene. It was a time when young musicians were looking to break free from the constraints of traditional pop music, and Manfred Mann’s energetic performance offered a refreshing alternative. The band’s ability to blend elements of blues, rock, and doo-wop into a cohesive sound set them apart from their contemporaries.
“Doo Wah Diddy” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and charting in several other countries. It was a testament to the band’s raw talent and infectious energy. The song’s success helped to establish Manfred Mann as one of the leading bands of the British Invasion era.
While “Doo Wah Diddy” may be their most well-known song, it was just the beginning of Manfred Mann’s musical journey. The band would go on to release a series of critically acclaimed albums and singles, exploring a wide range of musical styles. However, their debut single remains a timeless classic that captures the spirit of a bygone era and continues to delight audiences of all ages.
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Lyrics
There she was just a-walkin’ down the street, singin’
‘Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do’
Snappin’ her fingers and shufflin’ her feet, singin’
‘Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do’
She looked good (Looked good)
She looked fine (Looked fine)
She looked good, she looked fine
And I nearly lost my mind
Before I knew it she was walkin’ next to me, singin’
‘Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do’
Holdin’ my hand just as natural as can be, singin’
‘Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do’
We walked on (Walked on)
To my door (My door)
We walked on to my door
Then we kissed a little more
Whoa-oh, I knew we was falling in love
Yes, I did
And so I told her all the things
I’d been dreamin’ of
Now we’re together nearly every single day, singin’
‘Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do’
A-we’re so happy, and that’s how we’re gonna stay, singin’
‘Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do’
Well, I’m hers (I’m hers)
She’s mine (She’s mine)
I’m hers, she’s mine
Wedding bells are gonna chime
Whoa-oh, I knew we was falling in love
Yes, I did
And so I told her all the things
I’d been dreamin’ of
Now we’re together nearly every single day, singin’
‘Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do’
A-we’re so happy, and that’s how we’re gonna stay, singin’
‘Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do’
Well, I’m hers (I’m hers)
She’s mine (She’s mine)
I’m hers, she’s mine
Wedding bells are gonna chime
Whoa-oh-oh-oh, oh yeah
Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do, we’ll sing it
Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do, oh yeah, oh, oh yeah
Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do