Little Eva: The Voice Behind ‘Keep Your Hands Off My Baby’

Introduction

“Keep Your Hands Off My Baby” by Little Eva is a timeless classic that has captivated music enthusiasts for decades. This upbeat and catchy song has not only stood the test of time but has also left an indelible mark on the music industry. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating story behind this iconic track and its talented performer, Little Eva.

Did You Know?

• The Song’s Origin: “Keep Your Hands Off My Baby” was written by the legendary songwriting duo, Gerry Goffin and Carole King. It was released as a single in 1962 and quickly climbed the charts, earning widespread acclaim for its infectious melody and spirited vocals.
• The Singer: Little Eva, whose real name was Eva Narcissus Boyd, was the voice behind this chart-topping hit. Born on June 29, 1943, in Belhaven, North Carolina, Eva was discovered by Carole King while working as a babysitter for the songwriting couple. Her distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence made her the perfect choice to bring this song to life.
• Chart Success: “Keep Your Hands Off My Baby” soared to the 12th position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, establishing Little Eva as a prominent figure in the early 1960s music scene. Her dynamic performance and the song’s irresistible rhythm made it a favorite among fans of the era.
• The Dance Craze: The song not only inspired music lovers but also sparked a popular dance craze known as “The Loco-Motion.” This energetic dance quickly became a sensation, and Little Eva’s song was the perfect soundtrack to accompany it.
• Legacy: Little Eva’s “Keep Your Hands Off My Baby” remains a cherished classic in the world of pop music. Its enduring popularity has led to numerous covers and adaptations by artists across different generations.

Video

We’ve been friends for oh, so long
I let you share what’s mine
But when you mess with the boy I love
It’s time to draw the line

Keep your hands (keep your hands) off my baby
I ain’t gonna tell you but-a one more time
Oh, keep your hands (keep your hands) off my baby
Girl, you get it through your head
That boy is mine

I don’t mind when you lend my clothes
My jewelry and such
But, honey, let’s get something straight
There’s one thing you don’t touch

Keep your hands (keep your hands) off my baby
Girl, you get it through your head
That boy is mine

Keep your hands (keep your hands) off my baby
I ain’t gonna tell you but-a one more time
Oh, keep your hands (keep your hands) off my baby
Girl, you get it through your head
That boy is mine

(Keep your hands)
Oh, keep your hands (off my) off my baby (baby)
I ain’t gonna tell you twice
(Keep your hands off my)
He’s mine (baby)
Yay, yay, yeah, he’s mine
(Keep your hands off my)
You better watch yourself, now (baby)
[fade-out]