Puttin' On The Ritz

The song 'Puttin' On The Ritz' by Taco is a vibrant homage to the glitz and glamour of high society and the allure of fashion. Originally written by Irving Berlin in 1929, the song has been covered by various artists, with Taco's 1982 synth-pop version being one of the most notable renditions. The lyrics invite listeners to escape their blues by indulging in the opulence and style of the upper class, specifically referencing the Ritz, a symbol of luxury and high-end living.

The phrase 'Puttin' on the Ritz' itself means to dress very fashionably and often extravagantly. It suggests a transformation or elevation of one's status through the act of dressing up. The song mentions iconic figures like Gary Cooper, an epitome of the suave Hollywood leading man, and the Rockefellers, a family synonymous with wealth and power. These references serve to paint a picture of an exclusive world where appearance and social standing are paramount.

Taco's rendition of the song, with its catchy beat and modern twist, brought the Roaring Twenties into the 1980s, blending nostalgia with contemporary pop culture. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its catchy melody and the universal desire to occasionally step into a world of sophistication and elegance, if only for the length of a dance floor tune.