Night Boat to Cairo
Lee Thompson, Madness, Suggs
The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com
It's just gone noon Half past monsoon On the banks of the river Nile Here comes the boat Only half-afloat Oarsman grins a toothless smile Only just one more To this desolate shore Last boat along the river Nile Doesn't seem to care No more wind in his hair As he reaches his last half mile The oar snaps in his hand Before he reaches dry land But the sound doesn't deafen his smile Just pokes at wet sand With an oar in his hand Floats off down the river Nile Floats off down the river Nile (All aboard, night boat to Cairo!) (Night boat to Cairo!)
The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com
Written by: CATHAL JOSEPH SMYTH, CHRISTOPHER JOHN FOREMAN, DANIEL MARK WOODGATE, GRAHAM MCPHERSON, LEE JAY THOMPSON, MARK WILLIAM BEDFORD, MICHAEL BARSON
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Band Information"Night Boat to Cairo" was released by a British band called "Madness". The band is known for its fusion of reggae, pop, and ska music.
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Release YearThe song was released in the year 1979, contributing to the late 70’s British Ska revival movement.
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Album History"Night Boat to Cairo" is part of the band's debut album, "One Step Beyond". This album was instrumental in propelling the band to fame.
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Chart PerformanceDespite its popularity, "Night Boat to Cairo" did not achieve chart success on its initial release. Instead, it reached the UK Singles Chart only when re-released in 1980 as part of the "Work Rest and Play" EP.
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Music VideoThe music video of "Night Boat to Cairo" features band member Suggs in Middle Eastern attire, performing against a cartoon-style background of Egyptian pyramids, contributing to the song's playful tone.
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Song ThemeThe song's lyrics are noted for their surreal quality. They describe a trip down the Nile River and a night-time journey to Cairo, lending an exotic mood to the track.
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Live Performance TraditionsDuring live performances of "Night Boat to Cairo", it's a tradition for audience members to dress like fez-wearing Egyptians and make rowing motions, reflecting the song's nautical theme.
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Band Lineup"Night Boat to Cairo" was performed by the seven original members of Madness namely Graham "Suggs" McPherson, Mike Barson, Chris Foreman, Lee Thompson, Mark Bedford, Daniel Woodgate, and Carl Smyth.
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Unique SoundThe keyboard riff and saxophone solo in "Night Boat to Cairo" is often regarded as the band's characteristic sound, contributing to their unique musical style.
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Legacy"Night Boat to Cairo" is one of Madness's most popular songs, and continues to be a favorite to play at their live performances. The song also often features on ska and new wave compilation albums.
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Citation
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"Night Boat to Cairo Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 30 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/33801956/Madness/Night+Boat+to+Cairo>.
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