About the song
Rick James released the infectious hit “Super Freak” on July 10, 1981. This track is part of his fifth album, Street Songs, which solidified his reputation as the king of punk funk. “Super Freak” is a quintessential funk anthem, characterized by its irresistible bassline, catchy lyrics, and James’s dynamic vocal performance.
The song is a playful ode to a woman who, despite her respectable public persona, reveals a wilder side behind closed doors. Rick James masterfully blends elements of funk, pop, and rock, creating a track that is both musically innovative and lyrically cheeky. The song’s distinctive opening bass riff, played by James himself, has become one of the most recognizable hooks in popular music.
“Super Freak” was a commercial success, reaching No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Rick James’ssignature songs. Its influence extended far beyond its initial release, as it was famously sampled by MC Hammer in his 1990 hit “U Can’t Touch This”, bringing the iconic bassline to a new generation and cementing its place in music history.
The track also showcased Rick James’s ability to blend humor and sensuality in his lyrics, a hallmark of his style that endeared him to a broad audience. Despite its playful tone, the song addresses themes of freedom and individuality, celebrating those who defy societal norms to embrace their true selves.
“Super Freak”‘s impact on pop culture is undeniable. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, becoming a staple of the 1980s soundtrack. The song’s popularity also underscored the growing acceptance and mainstream appeal of funk music during that era.
Rick James was known for his flamboyant persona and boundary-pushing artistry, and “Super Freak” epitomizes his unique approach to music. The track’s enduring popularity is a testament to his talent and the lasting appeal of his work. Street Songs, the album housing “Super Freak”, is often regarded as Rick James’s magnum opus, blending gritty street narratives with slick, danceable funk.
In summary, “Super Freak” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a cultural landmark that encapsulates the spirit of the early ’80s. Its combination of infectious rhythm, memorable lyrics, and Rick James’s charismatic performance ensures that it remains a beloved classic, celebrating individuality and the joy of self-expression.
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Lyrics
She’s a very kinky girlThe kind you don’t take home to motherShe will never let your spirits downOnce you get her off the street, ow, girlShe likes the boys in the bandShe says that I’m her all-time favoriteWhen I make my move to her room, it’s the right timeShe’s never hard to please, oh, noThat girl is pretty wild now (the girl’s a super freak)The kind of girl you read about (in new-wave magazines)That girl is pretty kinky (the girl’s a super freak)I really love to taste her (every time we meet)She’s alright, she’s alrightThat girl’s alright with meYeah, hey, hey, hey, hey!She’s a super freak, super freakShe’s super-freaky, yowEverybody singSuper freak, super freakShe’s a very special girl (the kind of girl you want to know)From her head down to her toenails (down to her feet)Yeah, she’ll wait for me at backstage with her girlfriendsIn a limousine (long and black and shining bright)Three’s not a crowd to her, she says (ménage à trois, ooh, la, la)“Room 714, I’ll be waiting”When I get there, she’s got incense, wine, and candlesIt’s such a freaky sceneThat girl is pretty kinky (the girl’s a super freak)The kind of girl you read about (in new-wave magazines)That girl is pretty wild now (the girl’s a super freak)I really like to taste her (every time we meet)She’s alright, she’s alrightThat girl’s alright with meYeah, hey, hey, hey, hey!She’s a super freak, super freakShe’s super-freaky, yowTemptations singOh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-ohSuper freak, super freakThat girl’s a super freakOh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-ohShe’s a very kinky girlThe kind you won’t take home to motherAnd she will never let your spirits downOnce you get her off the streetBlow DannyOh, girlOh, girl