Cat Cohen's Anatomy of a Hit a Hit in 2011

Moves like Jagger by Maroon V/Christina Aguilera

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A refreshing burst of playful sexy disco-pop that perfectly showcases two of today’s top recording stars.

Song: Moves like Jagger
Artist: Maroon V/Christina Aguilera
Album: Hands All Over
Songwriter: Adam levine, Benjamin Levin, Ammar Malik, Shellback
Producer:
B005EVVESM

Concept
A fun sensual dance tune that is both retro in its neo disco style and current with its electronica synth sounds and altered vocals. A guaranteed dancer’s and lover’s delight.

Lyric
The singer is hot to turn on his partner and confident he’s got all the right moves for them to have a great time together. VERSE Just shoot for the stars if it feels right Then aim for my heart if you feel like And take me away and make it OK I swear I’ll behave You wanted control so we waited I put on a show, now I make it You say I’m a kid, my ego is big I don’t give a sh#t And it goes like this CHORUS Take me by the tongue and I’ll know you Kiss me ‘til you’re drunk and I’ll show you All the moves like Jagger I’ve got the moves like Jagger (2x) I don’t need to try to control you Look into my eyes and I’ll own you With them moves like Jagger I’ve got the moves like Jagger (2x)

Groove
A fast-paced [BPM = 124] disco-pop 8th groove with 16th overlays in the guitar rhythm and electronic drum fills. A non-stop quarter note kick drum pulse is heard throughout.

Melody
A classic two-part dance tune in a 6-tone minor scale with two strong melodic components repeated within each section. The chorus melody is higher pitched and more memorable than the verse, as it should be.

Harmony
There are only two chords in the whole song, both minor sevenths, the same in both sections. Yet other elements provide the needed contrast in the song instead of any chord changes. I7 i7 i7 i7 iv7 iv7 iv7 iv7

Structure
A A B A A B A A B Signature Verse Verse Chorus Verse Verse Chorus Verse Verse Chorus

Signature
A whistle sounding synth figure introduces the song and is repeated often throughout the recording.

Production
A simple, straightforward and extremely effective production. The repetitive dance structure and groove alternately thins and thickens. Once started, the recording grabs the listener and doesn’t let go.

Performance
Levine and Aguilera each sing with lusty passion and polished confidence. Their playful seductiveness is catchy and irresistible, and their vocals are a perfect match.

Predicted Longevity
“Moves Like Jagger” is a perfect example of a hit tied to a specific space and time, 2011. Most likely not a candidate for song of the year, it still is a very appealing and highly infectious dance record that will be featured in clubs and dance halls for many years, bringing back this time and place for many people. Kudos to all persons involved.

Album Cover: Hands All Over

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