The Evolution of 'Twist and Shout': Unveiling the Original Authors and Early Performers

The iconic song 'Twist and Shout' has a fascinating history that spans multiple artists and decades. Often credited to the Isley Brothers, the song's origins and early iterations are more complex and intriguing. This article aims to clarify the credits and chronology, providing a detailed account of the song's journey.

Origins of 'Twist and Shout'

The song 'Twist and Shout' was originally written by Phil Medley and Bert Berns, also known as Bert Russell. Phil Medley and Bert Berns were songwriters of considerable talent, responsible for a range of famous hits. Bert Berns is particularly known for other iconic songs such as 'Hang On Sloopy,' 'Piece of My Heart,' and 'Brown Eyed Girl.'

First Recorded Version: The Top Notes

Version 1: The Top Notes, an American RB vocal group, recorded 'Twist and Shout' first in 1961. This version was produced by Phil Spector and released as the B-side to a single that did not gain much traction. Notably, the song was released in August 1961, marking its earliest recorded form in the annals of music history.

Isley Brothers' Arrangement

Version 2: The Isley Brothers then recorded 'Twist and Shout' in 1962, introducing a significant rearrangement to the song. This version was produced by Bert Burns, one of the co-writers of the song. Burns was dissatisfied with the original Top Notes version and reworked the song with a new, memorable 4-note bridge. This bridge came to be a hallmark of the song, making 'Twist and Shout' a hit for the Isley Brothers. It was their first song to break the top 20 and was released in May 1962. This version marked a significant evolution in the song's history, featuring a more dramatic and emphatic tempo and bridge.

The Beatles' Cover

Version 3: Notably, The Beatles covered 'Twist and Shout' and released their version on March 22, 1963. This cover was highly influential and remains one of the band's signature songs. The Beatles brought their own dynamism to the song, making it a retort to the American RB versions, exemplifying their burgeoning influence on popular music.

A Final Note on Authorship

It is important to acknowledge the contributions of all involved in the creation and evolution of 'Twist and Shout.' The song has come to be a staple of popular culture, with each version adding its own unique flavor and interpretation. From its humble beginnings with The Top Notes to its major hit by the Isley Brothers and further solidified by The Beatles, 'Twist and Shout' stands as a testament to the rich and complex tapestry of music history.

Key Takeaways:

Original Authors: Phil Medley and Bert Berns (Bert Russell) Isley Brothers' Version: Produced by Bert Burns, introduced a 4-note bridge, released in May 1962 The Beatles' Version: Released on March 22, 1963, marking one of the band's iconic covers

Credits:

For a comprehensive understanding, refer to the Wikipedia article on 'Twist and Shout.'