“Eagle Rock” by Daddy Cool
“The Eagle Rock”, as implied by the lyrics, is actually a type of dance. What the lyrics don’t indicate is that said dance actually dates back to early 20th century Africa-America. But in any event it is quite amazing that this song, which was dropped back in 1971, reads a lot like the booty-shaking tunes we commonly come across here in the 21st century.
That is not to say that there is any mention of female body parts or anything like that. But it is pretty obvious that the addressee is someone who the vocalist is romantically interested in and likes watching dance. And it also doesn’t take rocket since to figure out that as presented, the “good old Eagle Rock” can be taken as metaphorically alluding to sex between the vocalist and addressee.
When did Daddy Cool release “Eagle Rock”
Daddy Cool released “Eagle Rock” as a single in May of 1971. The song was originally listed on the band’s maiden album, which they titled “Daddy Who?… Daddy Cool”.
Credits
“Eagle Rock” was penned by the band’s frontman and co-founder, Ross Wilson while its production was left in the able hands of Robie Porter.
Achievements of “Eagle Rock”
“Eagle Rock”, topped charts in several countries including Australia, where it remained at No.1 for ten weeks. In nearby New Zealand, it also performed vey impressively. It actually went all the way to the number 1 spot in this country in 1990.
“Eagle Rock” was named the 2nd best Australian song of all time by the Australasian Performing Right Association in May of 2001.
In 2010, the song was added to the Sounds of Australia registry of Australia’s National Film and Sound Archive.
English music great Sir Elton John, derived inspiration from “Eagle Rock” during his 1972 Australian tour in writing “Crocodile Rock” with assistance from Bernie Taupin.
The song was featured in “Wolf Creek”, a 2005 Australian horror movie by Greg McLean. It was also featured in the TV comedy series, “Dossa and Joe”.
Who has covered “Eagle Rock”?
“Eagle Rock” has been widely covered since it was released in the 1970s. Notable amongst the numerous musical acts who have released their own versions of this song include:
- Aussie Pride (2017)
- Sovereign (2) (2004)
- The James Valentine Quartet (2011)
- The Reels (1988)
- The Wiggles (ft. Ross Wilson) (2002)
Daddy Cool’s “Daddy Who?… Daddy Cool” Album
This album came out on the 2nd of July, 1971.
Recording took place at Armstrong Studios, a recording studio in the Australian capital, Melbourne. It was produced by Robie Porter, an Australian record producer, musician and record executive.
“Daddy Who?… Daddy Cool” was a commercial success. Aside from amassing a tall list of accolades, it got featured in several music journals and publications around the world. In the band’s home country of Australia, the project topped charts and broke several records including being the first LP from that country to record sales of over 100,000 copies.
In the 2010 book, “100 Best Australian Albums”, authored by John O’Donnell, Craig Mathieson and Toby Creswell, “Daddy Who?… Daddy Cool” was the 14th best album.
