Shake a Tail Feather: Choral Instrumental Pak
As performed by Andre Williams / Arranged by Alan Billingsley
Item: 35-PK00379944
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Description
One of the most covered pop songs ever, this tune was featured most famously in The Blues Brothers performed by Ray Charles. A great dance number to show off all your best moves!
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00379944
More about this title
About the Artist: Andre Williams
Andre Williams was a pivotal figure in early rhythm and blues, bringing raw energy and showmanship to the genre during the 1950s and early 1960s. His recording of "Shake a Tail Feather" became an instant classic, later immortalized in John Landis's 1980 film "The Blues Brothers" where Ray Charles's rendition introduced the song to a new generation of listeners.
Williams' influence extends far beyond his own recordings. His approach to infectious grooves and audience engagement laid groundwork for generations of performers who understood that R&B and rock and roll were as much about physical presence and joy as they were about musicianship. For music educators, his catalog represents a bridge between classic American vernacular music and contemporary pop sensibility.
Why we love this
Alan Billingsley's arrangement captures every ounce of the original's infectious swagger while keeping the vocal and instrumental parts accessible for varied ensemble abilities. The fact that this tune has been recorded countless times across genres means your singers already have the DNA of the song in their ears, which makes learning and performing it genuinely fun rather than an uphill climb.
What to expect
Infectious, unpretentious joy. The arrangement swings with a relaxed confidence that makes singers want to smile while they're performing. This is music that rewards physical commitment and audience connection over technical polish, turning the concert stage into something closer to a party.
Who it's for
Choirs and mixed ensembles looking for repertoire that connects with audiences instantly and gives singers permission to move and have fun on stage. Works equally well for groups wanting a crowd-pleasing novelty piece or directors seeking an entry point into American vernacular music.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish a clear groove in the rhythm section before rehearsing vocals. This song lives and dies by pocket, not precision. Spend time locking the drums, bass, and piano together until that bounce feels inevitable.
- Encourage physical commitment from your singers without making it awkward. The best "Shake a Tail Feather" performances let the choreography emerge naturally from the rhythm, not the other way around.
- Balance the vocal soli or sections with the accompanying parts. The supporting voices should energize the lead line rather than competing with it. Think of them as musicians in a live band, not a choir singing harmony.
How to use it
Pair this with other classic American pop or R&B standards to create a program segment celebrating vernacular music traditions. It works beautifully as a finale that leaves audiences on a high note, or as a contrast piece that breaks up a heavier concert sequence. Spring or end-of-year concerts benefit most from its energy.
Skills your students will build
- Singing with rhythmic precision in a syncopated groove
- Balancing ensemble sound while supporting a featured vocal line
- Reading simple instrumental cues and responding dynamically
- Connecting physical movement to musical phrasing and expression