“Freaks Come Out at Night” by Whodini
During the early days of hip-hop, before rap music had really established a name for itself, it was largely associated with the disco scene. So people who attended associated dance clubs were oft treated to both genres. And on this song, Whodini is largely speaking to such experiences, i.e. attending discothèques. And basically they are describing some of the other attendees as “freaks”. These individuals are notable due to their apparel, which based on the way Jalil elaborates in the second verse is akin to punk rockers.
But as Ecstasy points out, what he appreciates the most about “freaks” are their love-making skills. And overall this serves sort of like a dance song. That is to say that, once again, the titular freaks are the types of people who Whodini encounter in the night at parties. And the two vocalists are basically expressing their personal opinions and observations of such individuals. And overall it can said that the rappers are impressed by them, in addition to warning the faint of heart to avoid ‘coming out at night’, lest they too come across a “freak”.
Facts about “Freaks Come Out at Night”
This is another of Whodini’s songs which at least some people would deem the group’s signature track. For instance, it actually makes an appearance on the ultra-popular Grand Theft Auto videogame franchise, specifically on 2006’s Vice City Stories installment. And during its day it also had an impressive chart showing for a rap song. For example, it appeared on three Billboard charts. And overall the titular phrase has remained in pop culture throughout the years.
“Freaks Come Out at Night” was authored by Whodini’s primary songwriter, Jalil Hutchins. And the track was produced by a regular collaborator of the band, Larry Smith.
The music video to this song featured Jermaine Dupri when he was but a lad. This was about a decade or so before he became one of the most-successful music producers in hip-hop.
This song is the third single from Whodini’s second album, Escape. And it was released as such by Jive Records on 17 October 1984.
