Diddy Wah Diddy

Bo Diddley

About Diddy Wah Diddy

"Diddy Wah Diddy" is a song written by Willie Dixon and Ellas McDaniel, known as Bo Diddley, and recorded by the latter in 1956. The song shares only its title with Blind Blake's song "Diddie Wah Diddie" recorded in 1929. Over the years, the Bo Diddley song has been covered by many bands and artists, including The Astronauts, Captain Beefheart and his Magic Band, The Remains, The Twilights, Taj Mahal, The Sonics, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Ty Segall Band, and The Blues Band among others.  


Year:
2012
2:35
96 
#1

Lyrics currently unavailable…


Bo Diddley

Ellas Otha Bates (December 30, 1928 – June 2, 2008), known by his stage name Bo Diddley, was an American rhythm and blues vocalist, guitarist, songwriter (usually as Ellas McDaniel), and rock and roll pioneer. He was also known as The Originator because of his key role in the transition from the blues to rock, influencing a host of acts, including Buddy Holly, Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, The Velvet Underground, The Who, The Yardbirds, Eric Clapton,Elvis Presley,The Beatles, and George Michael, among others. He introduced more insistent, driving rhythms and a hard-edged electric guitar sound on a wide-ranging catalog of songs, along with African rhythms and a signature beat (a simple, five-accent rhythm) that remains a cornerstone of rock and pop. Accord… more »

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10 facts about this song

Creators
"Diddy Wah Diddy" was written by two prominent blues songwriters: Willie Dixon and Ellas McDaniel, better known as Bo Diddley.
Multiple Interpretations
Though originally written by Willie Dixon and Bo Diddley, the song has been covered by numerous bands and artists in different styles. One notably different interpretation of the song is by Captain Beefheart and his Magic Band.
Origin of the Song
The original version of "Diddy Wah Diddy" was recorded and released by Bo Diddley in 1956. This version is renowned for its rhythm and blues style.
Performance Style
Captain Beefheart’s cover of the song, released in 1966, mirrored his signature experimental rock style, which was quite different from the rhythm and blues style of the original.
Popularity
Despite being a firm favorite among hardcore blues and rock fans, "Diddy Wah Diddy" did not manage to make it into top charts upon release.
Cultural Significance
The term "Diddy Wah Diddy" is believed to be a Southern slang term although its exact meaning is not sure. Some interpretations suggest it refers to an imaginary place.
Musical Impact
Bo Diddley's version of "Diddy Wah Diddy" is recognized for his innovative guitar work, incorporating a heavy, syncopated beat that became a distinctive characteristic in many rock and roll songs following it.
Notable Live Performances
Captain Beefheart and his Magic Band performed their version of "Diddy Wah Diddy" on A&M Records' television show "Where The Action Is" in 1966. It was the band's first TV appearance.
Inspiration
Blues legends like Bo Diddley and Willie Dixon, and their songs such as "Diddy Wah Diddy," continue to inspire a spectrum of genres, particularly rock and punk bands.
Legacy
Despite not being a chart-topping song, "Diddy Wah Diddy" retains its popularity among fans of blues and experimental rock and is often seen as a testament to the innovative spirit of its composers and performers.

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