Let the Music Play by Shannon: Story Behind the Song

About the Song

"Let the Music Play" is a song recorded by American singer Shannon and released on September 19, 1983, as both her debut single and the lead single from her 1984 debut studio album of the same name. Written by Chris Barbosa and Ed Chisolm, and produced by Barbosa and Mark Liggett, "Let the Music Play" was the first of Shannon's four number ones on the US Dance Club Songs chart, reaching the top spot in October 1983. It also became a successful crossover hit in the US, peaking at number two on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 in February 1984. It was Shannon's only top 40 hit in the US.

Meaning Behind the Lyrics

Many listeners interpret "Let the Music Play" as an anthem of liberation and joy, celebrating the transformative power of music. The song can be read as an invitation to embrace rhythm and dance, emphasizing how music can create a sense of freedom and escape from everyday worries. Its upbeat tempo and infectious energy inspire a communal experience, encouraging people to come together on the dance floor. Overall, the track reflects a carefree spirit and the idea that music plays a vital role in shaping our emotions and experiences.

Did You Know?

• Charles Weedon Westover, known professionally as Del Shannon, was an American musician, singer, and songwriter, best known for his 1961 number-one Billboard hit "Runaway", which was covered later by various major artists, including Elvis Presley and the Traveling Wilburys.
• In 1999, he was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Music Details

These details come from the iTunes song listing used for the artwork and metadata match.

• Album/collection: Let the Music Play
• Genre: Dance
• iTunes release date: January 1, 1983
• Track runtime: 3:34

Video Snapshot

• Video title: Shannon – Let The Music Play (Official Music Video)
• YouTube channel: UnidiscMusic
• Video published: October 22, 2010
• Video runtime: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• YouTube views when drafted: 65,811,582
• YouTube likes when drafted: 505,979
• YouTube comments when drafted: 17,113

Quick Facts

• Artist: SHANNON
• Song: LET THE MUSIC PLAY
• Album/collection: Let the Music Play
• Genre: Dance
• Reference page: Let the Music Play (Shannon song)

Sources

• Wikipedia: Let the Music Play (Shannon song)
• Wikipedia: Del Shannon
• YouTube: Shannon – Let The Music Play (Official Music Video)
• Artwork courtesy of iTunes