Introduction
The Hustle: A Disco Anthem with Unexpected Origins
Van McCoy’s “The Hustle” isn’t just a catchy disco tune; it’s a song that captured a cultural moment and reignited the joy of couples dancing. While the song itself reached number one on the Billboard charts in 1975, its origins are surprisingly quick and spontaneous.
Producer, arranger, and songwriter Van McCoy wasn’t initially aware of the dance craze that would inspire his biggest hit. While working on an album in New York City, his collaborator, Charles Kipps, visited the nightclub Adam’s Apple. There, he witnessed patrons busting a move called “The Hustle.” Intrigued, Kipps brought two dancers back to the studio at midnight to show McCoy the new phenomenon. McCoy, immediately taken by the energy and rhythm, wrote “The Hustle” in about an hour.
“The Hustle” was actually the last song recorded for the album and almost didn’t make the cut. Thankfully, it did. The infectious groove, punctuated by the now-iconic horn section, perfectly captured the essence of the dance. The song’s success transcended the charts. It fueled a nationwide dance craze, bringing couples back to the dance floor and solidifying disco’s place in popular culture. “The Hustle” wasn’t just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon.
McCoy’s work was recognized by his peers. “The Hustle” won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance in 1976, solidifying his place in disco history. The song’s enduring legacy continues to inspire dancers and musicians alike. So, put on your dancing shoes and crank up the volume. It’s time to get down to “The Hustle.”