About the song
“Jump in the Line (Shake, Senora)” by Harry Belafonte is a lively and infectious calypso song that has captivated audiences since its release. Featured on Belafonte’s 1961 album “Jump Up Calypso,” this track is a spirited celebration of Caribbean rhythm and dance, perfectly showcasing Belafonte’s charisma and the vibrant energy of calypso music.
The song was originally written by Trinidadian calypsonian Lord Kitchener (Aldwyn Roberts), and it was later popularized by Belafonte, whose rendition brought it to international acclaim. “Jump in the Line” is renowned for its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and the irresistible call to dance, “Shake, shake, shake, Senora!” This call-and-response style is a hallmark of calypso music, inviting listeners to participate and immerse themselves in the joyous rhythm.
Upon its release, “Jump in the Line” quickly became a hit, further cementing Belafonte’s status as the “King of Calypso.” The song enjoyed significant airplay and became a staple at parties and dance halls, celebrated for its infectious energy and uplifting spirit. While it didn’t achieve the same chart-topping success as Belafonte’s “Banana Boat Song (Day-O),” it remains one of his most beloved tracks and an enduring favorite among fans of Caribbean music.
“Jump in the Line” gained renewed popularity decades later when it was featured in Tim Burton’s 1988 film “Beetlejuice.” The memorable scene where characters dance to the song brought it to a new generation of listeners, illustrating the timeless appeal of Belafonte’s music. The film’s success helped reintroduce the song to popular culture, ensuring its place as a perennial classic.
Harry Belafonte’s rendition of “Jump in the Line” is more than just a fun and danceable tune; it’s a vibrant piece of cultural history that reflects the joyful and celebratory spirit of Caribbean music. For older listeners, it’s a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of calypso, while for newer fans, it’s an invitation to discover the rich and dynamic world of Belafonte’s musical legacy. “Jump in the Line” continues to bring people together on dance floors around the world, a testament to its enduring charm and universal appeal.
Video
Lyrics
Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake your body line
Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake it all the time
Work, work, work, Senora, work your body line
Work, work, work, Senora, work it all the time
My girl’s name is Senora
I tell you friends, I adore her
And when she dances, oh, brother
She’s a hurricane in all kinds of weather
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Okay, I believe you)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Okay, I believe you)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Okay, I believe you)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Whoa)
Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake your body line, whoa
Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake it all the time
Work, work, work, Senora, work your body line
Work, work, work, Senora, work it all the time
You can talk about cha-cha
Tango, waltz or the rumba
Senora’s dance has no title
You jump in the saddle
Hold on to the bridle
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Okay, I believe you)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Rock your body, child)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Somebody, help me)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Whoa)
Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake your body line
Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake it all the time, whoa
Work, work, work, Senora, work your body line, yep
Work, work, work, Senora, work it all the time
Senora, she’s a sensation
The reason for aviation
And fellas, you got to watch it
When she wind up she bottom, she go like a rocket
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Okay, I believe you)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Hoist those skirts a little higher)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Up the chimney)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Whoa-oh)
Yes sir
Shake, shake, shake, Senora
Shake your body line
Work, work, work, Senora
Work it all the time
Dance, dance, dance, Senora
Dance it all the time
Work, work, work, Senora
Work it all the time
Senora dances calypso
Left to right is the tempo
And when she gets the sensation
She go up in the air
Come down in slow motion
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Okay, I believe you)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Somebody, help me)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Okay, I believe you)
Jump in the line, rock your body in time
(Whoa)
Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake your body line
Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake it all the time
Work, work, work, Senora