About the song
Released in 1959, “Baby Talk” by Jan and Dean is a quintessential example of the early rock and roll sound that defined the late 1950s. Jan and Dean, a popular duo from Los Angeles, were renowned for their harmonies and catchy melodies, making significant contributions to the surf rock and pop music scenes. “Baby Talk” is a testament to their talent and appeal during this era.
The song, written by Jan Berry, Dean Torrence, and the legendary producer and songwriter Brian Wilson, showcases a blend of upbeat rock and roll with playful, youthful lyrics. It captures the essence of teenage love and the joy of youthful romance, a common theme in Jan and Dean’s music. The track features a vibrant, infectious rhythm that complements the duo’s harmonious vocals, making it an engaging and memorable piece.
“Baby Talk” is notable not only for its catchy tune but also for its reflection of the early rock and roll movement. The song’s production and arrangement are characteristic of the era’s musical style, with lively instrumentation and upbeat tempos that were designed to captivate audiences and get them dancing. The playful lyrics and upbeat melody are indicative of the lighthearted and carefree nature of the 1950s rock and roll genre.
Jan and Dean, who initially started their musical journey in high school, had already gained popularity with hits like “Surf City” and “Little Old Lady from Pasadena” before “Baby Talk.” The song further cemented their place in the music industry, contributing to their reputation as one of the era’s leading rock and roll duos. Their music, including “Baby Talk,” continues to resonate with fans of classic rock and roll, representing a pivotal moment in the genre’s history.
Overall, “Baby Talk” is more than just a song; it’s a snapshot of a vibrant and transformative period in music history. It exemplifies the fun and enthusiasm that Jan and Dean brought to their music, making it a cherished classic from the rock and roll era of the late 1950s.
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Video
Lyrics
Bah bah bah bop oom dab oom dab oom wa wa wa
Bah bah bah bop oom dab oom dab oom wa wa wa
Bah bah bah oom dab oom dab oom dab oom dab
I am only five years old and my baby’s three
But I know that she’s the girl just you wait and see
When I say I love my girl, she replies to me, yeah
Dab oom dab oom dab dab oom dab oom dab dab dab
Oom dab oom dab oom dab dab oom dab oom dab dab
Which means to say she loves me
In baby talk
To say she loves me
Dip di dip di dip
She cannot speak very well, everybody knows
But to me she sure looks swell, in her baby clothes
I asked her if her love is true and she only goes
Yeah
Dab oom dab oom dab dab oom dab oom dab dab dab
Oom dab oom dab oom dab dab oom dab oom dab dab
Which means to say she loves me
I’ll tell the world, that I love her so
And if she wants to be my girl
I’ll never, (ever), ever let her go-o
she will say to me
When I kiss her on the cheek, oh so tenderly
Although I’m only five years old, she is only three
I really love my baby
(Dip di dip di dip)
Love my baby
(Dip di dip di dip)
Bah bah bah bop oom dab oom dab oom wa wa wa
Oom dab oom dab oom dab dab, oom dab oom dab, dab dab
Oom dab oom dab oom dab dab, oom dab oom dab dab
oom dab oom dab oom dab dab, oom dab oom dab oom dab dab
Oom dab oom dab oom dab dab, oom dab oom dab oom dab dab
(Woo wee ooo ooo ooo ooo) oom dab oom dab oom dab dab, oom dab oom dab dab dab