Wilbert Harrison – Kansas City

About The Song

“Kansas City” is a classic rhythm and blues song originally recorded by Wilbert Harrison in 1959. The song became a significant hit and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, solidifying its place in the rock and roll and blues genres.

Five facts about “Kansas City” by Wilbert Harrison (1959):

Original Composition: “Kansas City” was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Wilbert Harrison’s version, recorded in 1959, is the most well-known rendition of the song. It was released as a single and became a chart-topping hit.
Hit Single: The song quickly became a massive commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1959. Its popularity extended beyond the R&B charts, making it a crossover hit that appealed to a broad audience.
Boogie-Woogie Style: “Kansas City” is characterized by its boogie-woogie piano style and infectious rhythm. The upbeat and energetic nature of the song contributed to its widespread appeal and enduring popularity.
Cover Versions: The song has been covered by numerous artists from various genres, including Little Richard, Fats Domino, and The Beatles. The Beatles’ version, released on their album “Beatles for Sale” in 1964, helped introduce the song to a new generation of listeners.
Grammy Hall of Fame: In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, “Kansas City” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. This honor reflects the enduring impact of the song on the evolution of American popular music.

Video

Lyrics

I’m going to Kansas City, Kansas City here I come
I’m going to Kansas City, Kansas City here I come
They got some crazy lil’ women there
And I’m gonna get me one

I’m gonna be standing on the corner
Of Twelfth Street and Vine
I’m gonna be standing on the corner
Of Twelfth Street and Vine
With my Kansas City baby
And a bottle of Kansas City wine

Well I might take a train
I might take a plane, but if I have to walk
I’m going just the same
I’m going to Kansas City, Kansas City here I come
They got some crazy lil’ women there
And I’m gonna get me one

Oh but you know, yeah

Now if I stay with that woman, I know I’m gonna die
Gotta find a brand new baby
That’s the reason why
I’m going to Kansas City, Kansas City here I come

They got some crazy lil’ women there and I’m gonna get me one
They got crazy lil’ women there and I’m gonna get me one
They got some crazy lil’ women there and I’m gonna get me one