Bandstand Boogie - Barry Manilow (1975) 9/22/22

Some quick, abridged history:

For 37 years, 1952-1989, American Bandstand was a television institution, first locally in Philadelphia, then nationally on ABC for several years, followed by syndication, and finally on the USA Network.

Contrary to popular belief, Dick Clark was not the original host. Bob Horn and Lee Stewart co-hosted at first, then Bob by himself -- until he was busted for drunk driving. That was NOT acceptable for the host of teen-based TV show, so Bob was fired, which led to the hiring of the "world's oldest teenager, Mr. Clark.

The original Bandstand theme song was called "High Society" by Artie Shaw, but when the show went national, Les & Larry Elgart's Jitterbug instrumental "Bandstand Boogie" became the song of choice until 1969.

At that point, a synthesized "Bandstand Theme" by Mike Curb & The Waterfall took over, until a new disco version by Joe Porter replaced it 1974.

At about that time, Barry Manilow appeared on the show. He had been a HUGE fan of "Bandstand" in its early days...and loved old Elgart theme.

Barry felt "Bandstand" should go back to it with an updated jitterbug version...this time with words. He and his collaborator, Bruce Sussman, put their heads together and came up with lyrics that not only were fun...but highlighted what had made the show so successful for so many years.

He recorded his version for the album, "Tryin' to Get the Feeling," and although it was not single material, "Bandstand" adopted the song from 1977 to 1987, when it was replaced by yet another instrumental by David Russo. (Check out a few of the these themes below!)

Barry's "Bandstand Boogie" really smokes...and as a club DJ, I'd occasionally play it just to watch the Arthur Murray types take control of the dance floor and put on a jitterbug clinic. It was impressive to say the least.

For me, that reason alone is why Barry's version will ALWAYS by a "Great Song of the '70s!"

Les & Larry Elgart:

Mike Curb & The Waterfall: