England Swings

Roger Miller

About England Swings

"England Swings (Like a Pendulum Do)" is a 1965 country music song written and performed by Roger Miller. The single was Miller's eleventh hit on the US country chart where it peaked at number three. On the Billboard Hot 100, it peaked at number eight and was Miller's second number one on the Easy Listening chart. Petula Clark (from the Colour My World album) and Pat Boone both released cover versions in 1967. The title refers to Swinging London, a popular term for the progressive youth-centric cultural scene in London at the time. However, the lyrics do not convey any of this progressiveness, but mostly relate to stereotypical notions of traditional Britain, with references to "bobbies on bicycles", Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. The song also provides the structure for Miller's later song "Oo De Lally (Robin Hood and Little John)" for the film Robin Hood. The song is lambasted in 'How The Brits Rocked America' (BBC), where Miller is presented as mocking the youth culture in a cynical and commercial way. 


Year:
2000
1:51
80 
#1

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England swings like a pendulum do
Bobbies on bicycles, two by two
Westminster Abbey, the tower of Big Ben
The rosy-red cheeks of the little children

Now, if you huff and puff and you finally save enough
Money you can take your family on a trip across the sea
Take a tip before you take your trip, let me tell you where to go
Go to Engeland, oh

England swings like a pendulum do
Bobbies on bicycles, two by two
Westminster Abbey, the tower of Big Ben
The rosy-red cheeks of the little children

Mama's old pajamas and your papa's mustache
Falling out the window sill, frolic in the grass
Tryin' to mock the way they talk fun but all in vain
Gaping at the dapper men with derby hats and canes

England swings like a pendulum do
Bobbies on bicycles, two by two
Westminster Abbey, the tower of Big Ben
The rosy-red cheeks of the little children

England swings like a pendulum do
Bobbies on bicycles, two by two
Westminster Abbey, the tower of Big Ben
The rosy-red cheeks of the little children

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Roger Miller

Roger Dean Miller (January 2, 1936 – October 25, 1992) was an American singer, songwriter, musician and actor, best known for his honky tonk-influenced novelty songs. His most recognized tunes included the chart-topping country/pop hits "King of the Road", "Dang Me" and "England Swings", all from the mid-1960s Nashville sound era. more »

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Written by: ROGER MILLER

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Song Creation
"England Swings" is a timeless country hit written and originally performed by Roger Miller.
Misattribution
Despite popular misconceptions, "England Swings" was never recorded or performed by British singer Petula Clark. It's often confused with her similar titled hit "Downtown."
Release Time
The song was released in 1965 on Miller's album, "The 3rd Time Around."
Chart Performance
"England Swings" placed No.8 on US Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1966.
Song Inspiration
The song was written as an homage to the Swinging London scene of the mid-1960s.
Cultural References
The lyrics reference common British icons such as the "bobbies on bicycles," "Big Ben's tower," and "Westminster Abbey."
Cover Versions
Various artists have covered "England Swings," including Lisa Brokop and John Fogerty.
Overseas Success
Despite its American roots, the song also reached No.1 in the UK Singles Chart.
Awards and Accolades
Roger Miller received six Grammy Awards in 1965 including for "England Swings" which took home the trophy for Best Country & Western Single.
Use in Media
Songs like "England Swings" contributed greatly to Miller's popularity, and his music has been used in various movies and TV shows, including "Robin Hood" and "The Beverly Hillbillies."
Lasting Impact
"England Swings," with its catchy tune and whimsical lyrics, continues to be a staple on classic country radio stations.
Induction
Roger Miller was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1995, partly due to the success of songs like "England Swings."

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    England Swings

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1965

    Billboard #8


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