Tampico

Stan Kenton

About Tampico

"Tampico" is a popular song, composed in 1945 by Allan Roberts, with lyrics by Doris Fisher. It was produced in that year by Stan Kenton. The song gave June Christy a top-10 hit in 1945, peaking at #3 on the Billboard charts. Christy later commented to the "Jazz Journal International" that she had been disappointed that her first recording with Kenton was "Tampico," but was fortunate that it was a hit and established her right away. The song takes a satirical look at the Mexican city of its title, suggesting that at the time, Tampico, Tamaulipas, had become more Americanized than the U. S. itself, and that many of the souvenirs which could be bought there had been manufactured in the United States. "You buy a beautiful shawl; a souvenir for Aunt Flo. Authentic Mexican art – made in Idaho." Other recordings of "Tampico" have been made by Benny Goodman, Doris Fisher and Edmundo Ros among others. The song was also performed by Jo Stafford at The Chesterfield Supper Club and can be heard on the album At the Supper Club Part III. 


Year:
2015
2:41
72 
#1

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I, Tampico, Tampico, on the Gulf of Mehico
Tampico, Tampico, down in Mehico 

You buy a beautiful shawl
A souvenir for Aunt Flo
Authentic Mexican yarn
Made in Idaho

I, Tampico, Tampico, on the Gulf of Mehico 
Tampico, Tampico, down Mehico

The senoritas, they waive, when you arrive at the dock
The native costumes they wear
Are slacks and bobby socks

I, Tampico, Tampico, on the Gulf of Mehico
Tampico, Tampico, down in Mehico

You buy some pottery there
To beat the luxury tax
You find that when you get home
They sell it cheaper at Sachs

I, Tampico, Tampico, on the Gulf of Mehico
Tampico, Tampico, down in Mehico

You ask a Mexican band
To play a rumba-down-dare
He turns and says to the boys
"Hey, fellas, dig that square!"

I, Tampico, Tampico, on the Gulf of Mehico
Tampico, Tampico, down in Mehico

Down in Mehico

 Struggling with Tampico? Become a better singer in 30 days with these videos!


Stan Kenton

Stanley Newcomb "Stan" Kenton (December 15, 1911 – August 25, 1979) was a pianist, composer, and arranger who led an innovative, influential, and often controversial American jazz orchestra. In later years he was active as an educator. more »

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Written by: Doris Fisher, Allan Roberts

Lyrics © MUSIC SALES CORPORATION

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Tampico" Origin
"Tampico" is the biggest hit of singer June Christy and Stan Kenton's Orchestra, written by Allan Roberts and Doris Fisher.
Chart Success
The song debuted in 1945 and spent 13 weeks on the charts. It peaked at number 3 on the Billboard chart making it a considerable success for the times.
Unique Style
"Tampico" combined a Latin rhythm with jazz elements, which was a novelty in the mid-1940s and helped achieve the song's success.
Stan Kenton's Contribution
Stan Kenton, a renowned jazz pianist, is credited with producing the orchestra accompaniment in the song, a key feature of its unique sound.
Song Inspiration
The song "Tampico" is named after a city in Mexico, serving as an interesting slice of geographical inspiration.
June Christy's Vocal Talent
June Christy's impeccable vocal performance on "Tampico" significantly boosted her career, leading her to be recognized as one of the finest 'cool' jazz vocalists of the era.
Presence in Pop Culture
"Tampico" is frequently included in historic anthologies of classic jazz and pop songs from the 1940s.
Legacy of the Song
The song significantly influenced later jazz and pop musicians, playing a pioneering role in the fusion of Latin and jazz music styles.
Rewards & Recognition
Up until today, "Tampico" remains as one of the signature songs of Christy's and Kenton's careers and continues to be adored by jazz music lovers worldwide.
Album Inclusion
"Tampico" is also included in June Christy’s compilation album titled “June Christy Recalls Those Kenton Days” which was released in 1959. The album is a homage to her time performing with the Stan Kenton Orchestra.

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