Cool Jerk (The Capitols)

2 JULY 1966


'Cool Jerk' by the (The Capitols) reached its peak position of #7 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart on this day. It also went to #2 on the R&B chart.

This was the Capitols first recording since their 1963 debut single 'Dog and Cat/The Kick' bombed and they disbanded soon after. However, they wanted to capitalise on the popular mid-'60s 'jerk' dance craze (which consisted of holding the arms out in different positions and making thrusting motions with the hips) and reformed to record this. It was originally intended to be called 'Pimp Jerk', being based on a particularly lewd version of the dance, but the producer thought that a song with the word 'pimp' in the title would be banned.

The backing track for 'Cool Jerk' was recorded (in secret) by legendary Motown house band The Funk Brothers

B-side: 'Hello Stranger'
Released: 1966
Recorded: 14 March 1966, Golden World Studios, Detroit
Highest chart position: #7 (US)
Length: 2:45
Label: Karen Records
Writer: Donald Storball
Producer: Ollie McLaughlin

Cool Jerk (The Capitols)