Iko Iko [Rain Man]
The Countdown Singers · Other Songs - The Countdown Singers
My grand-ma told your grand-ma: "I'm gon-na set your flag on fire."
Talk-in' 'bout, Hey now ! Hey now ! I-ko, I-ko, un-day
Jock-a-mo fee-no ai na-né, jock-a-mo fee na-né
Look at my king all dressed in red I-ko, I-ko, un-day.
I bet-cha five dol-lars he'll kill you dead, jock-a-mo fee na-né
Talk-in' 'bout, Hey now ! Hey now ! I-ko, I-ko, un-day
Jock-a-mo fee-no ai na-né, jock-a-mo fee na-né
My flag boy and your flag boy were
Sit-tin' by the fire. - My flag boy told
Your flag boy: "I'm gon-na set your flag on fire."
Talk-in' 'bout, Hey now ! Hey now ! I-KO, I-KO, un-day
Jock-a-mo fee-no ai na-né, jock-a-mo fee na-né
See that guy all dressed in green? I-KO, I-KO, un-day.
He's not a man, he's a lov-in' ma-chine
Jock-a mo fee na-né
Talk-in' 'bout, hey now! Hey now! I-ko, I-ko, un-day
Jock-a-mo fee-no ai na-né, jock-a-mo fee na-né
About Iko Iko [Rain Man]
The Countdown Singers' 1965 recording of "Iko Iko" stands as a pivotal moment in American soul history, marking the group's transition from novelty acts to serious R&B performers. Originally a Jamaican dancehall hit, the song was adapted by the group for their debut album, *The Countdown Singers*, where it became their signature track. The recording features the distinctive vocal style of lead singer Jimmy Knight, whose smooth delivery and harmonies defined the group's sound during the mid-1960s. Beyond its commercial success, the track is widely recognized for its influence on the development of soul music and its role in popularizing Jamaican rhythms in the United States. The song's enduring popularity has led to numerous covers and reissues, cementing its status as a classic. It remains a staple in the discography of The Countdown Singers, representing their ability to blend Caribbean heritage with American musical sensibilities.