Once upon a time, it was 1983 and disco was nearly dead. After a heyday in the mid to late ’70s, all the haters got together and hosted Disco Demolition Night in Chicago, cited as “the day disco died.” Disco was the music of experience, of letting go, and, let’s face it, freedom. People didn’t want to think about the reality of the world at the time. Watergate, an energy crisis, the Jonestown Massacre – who wanted to face the crumbling ideals of America? Disco lyrics didn’t have to say much, but the beat did have to make your body move.
You’ve probably never even heard of Junior Byron. It’s cool, neither had I. He released a few electro/disco tracks just a tad too late to find any substantial popularity. Another artist in the wrong era. But his summon to dance still rings true for anyone looking for momentary release from the cruelty of the world. Thanks to the masterful Gigamesh, we can experience a taste of history and create our own dizzying effects on the dance floor. So put on some shiny pants (or don’t) and follow Byron’s directions:
Dance to the music Get down to the beat Dance to the music Move them funky feet. I have heard some people say they could boogie down all day. All they do is close their eyes and let the music hypnotize, they say.”