“Get Down and Get with It” by Slade: A Boisterous Anthem of Fun and Freedom
“Get Down and Get with It” by Slade is an exhilarating anthem that captures the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll with an infectious energy that can’t be ignored. Originally penned by American R&B singer-songwriter Bobby Marchan in 1964 as “Get Down with It” and later recorded by Little Richard in 1967, it was the British rock band Slade‘s 1971 version that catapulted the song into the UK charts and gave the band their first major hit. Reworking the track with their signature hard-hitting, glam rock flair, Slade made it their own with a raucous, full-throttle delivery that resonated with fans across generations.
Released as a single in 1971, “Get Down and Get with It” marked a turning point in the band’s career. It was their breakthrough into the mainstream, charting at #16 on the UK Singles Chart and introducing their high-energy, party-ready style to a larger audience. The song’s combination of stomping rhythm, infectious chorus, and sing-along appeal quickly cemented Slade’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading rock bands. It became an iconic part of the glam rock movement, setting the stage for their subsequent chart successes.
The track itself is a straightforward, no-frills rock anthem, a celebration of letting go and having a good time, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the early ’70s music scene. The lyrics urge listeners to get up, move, and enjoy the music, with a carefree attitude that speaks to the essence of freedom and the joy of the moment. Slade‘s version of the song, though rooted in the original Bobby Marchan and Little Richard renditions, brings its own unique flavor—charged with explosive energy and an irrepressible sense of fun. The raw, gritty vocals of lead singer Noddy Holder add a layer of excitement and urgency to the track, while the band’s powerhouse performance ensures that it’s impossible to sit still when it comes on.
While “Get Down and Get with It” was a significant hit in the UK, it also had a notable impact internationally, especially in Europe. Its infectious energy made it a crowd favorite during the band’s live performances, with the audience often participating in the sing-along, embodying the sense of unity and shared experience that rock ‘n’ roll was all about.
Slade’s version of the song didn’t just introduce them to a broader audience—it helped shape their identity as a band that could make people feel the music deep in their bones. By blending the soulful roots of the original track with their own dynamic rock sound, they created an anthem that stood the test of time, continuing to be a beloved classic for fans of both glam rock and hard rock alike.
With its jubilant spirit and unforgettable chorus, “Get Down and Get with It” continues to be a reminder of the raw joy of rock ‘n’ roll—one that encourages everyone, no matter their age or background, to let go and embrace the moment.