I wanna jump but I’m afraid I’ll fall
I wanna holler but the jones’ too small
Young man really got the hold to it too
I got the Rockin’ Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu
Want some lovin’, baby, that ain’t all
I wanna kiss her but the girl’s too tall
Young man really got a hold on it too
I got the Rockin’ Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu
I wanna scream, I want you all to know
I would be runnin’ but my feets are too slow
Young man really got a hold on it too
I got the Rockin’ Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu
Baby callin’ me now hurry home
I know she’s leavin’ ’cause I’m takin’ too long
Young man really got a hold on it too
I got the rockin’ pneumonia and Joe Perry too, oh
Want some lovin’, baby’ that ain’t all
I wanna kiss her but the girl’s too tall
Young man really got a hold on it too
I got the Rockin’ Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu
I wanna scream, I wanna scream
Young man really got a hold on it too
I got the Rockin’ Pneumonia, what’s the matter with you?
Energetic Blues and Infectious Grooves
“Rockin’ Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu” by Aerosmith is a playful homage to the energy and spirit of early rock and roll. The song’s lyrics cleverly intertwine the idea of an irresistible urge to dance and the metaphorical ‘illness’ that comes with catching the rhythm. The narrator is overwhelmed by the music, unable to contain his excitement, and humorously laments the side effects: he wants to jump, holler, and run, but the fever keeps him grounded. There’s a sense of longing for romance and connection, yet the contagious energy of the music always takes center stage. Aerosmith’s rendition captures the fun-loving, rebellious spirit that defines the genre, making it both a tribute and a celebration.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Huey “Piano” Smith
Year of Original Release: 1957
Label: Columbia Records (Aerosmith’s cover)