About the song
Johnny Tillotson’s “Poetry in Motion” is a beloved classic that captures the essence of early 1960s pop music with its charming melody and heartfelt lyrics. Released in 1960, this song became a defining moment in Tillotson’s career, showcasing his distinctive vocal style and his knack for conveying genuine emotion through his music.
The song was written by the talented songwriting duo of Paul Kaufman and Mike Anthony. Kaufman and Anthony crafted a song that blends romantic sentiment with a smooth, catchy tune, making it a perfect fit for Tillotson’s vocal abilities. The lyrics express the joy and wonder of being in love, likening the feeling to poetry that dances and sings, a theme that resonated strongly with listeners of that era.
“Poetry in Motion” was a major hit, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. This success solidified Johnny Tillotson’s place in the music industry and made the song a memorable part of the early ‘60s pop landscape. The track was included in Tillotson’s album of the same name, which further demonstrated his appeal as a pop artist with a heartfelt, accessible style.
Johnny Tillotson, with his smooth voice and sincere delivery, brought a special quality to “Poetry in Motion” that has endured over the years. The song remains a cherished classic, often celebrated for its simple yet profound expression of love and admiration. For those who have a fondness for the pop music of the early 1960s, “Poetry in Motion” is a delightful reminder of a time when music had the power to capture the essence of romance with elegance and charm.
Video
Lyrics
When I see my baby
What do I see
Poetry
Poetry in motion
Poetry in motion
Walkin’ by my side
Her lovely locomotion
Keeps my eyes open wide
Poetry in motion
See her gentle sway
A wave out on the ocean
Could never move that way
I love every movement
And there’s nothing I would change
She doesn’t need improvement
She’s much too nice to rearrange
Poetry in motion
Dancing close to me
A flower of devotion
A swaying gracefully
Whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa
Poetry in motion
See her gentle sway
A wave out on the ocean
Could never move that way
I love every movement
There’s nothing I would change
She doesn’t need improvement
She’s much too nice to rearrange
Poetry in motion
All that I adore
No number-nine love potion
Could make me love her more
Whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa