Cliff Richard and the Drifters: Move It

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Cliff’s debut single and his first hit, reaching No 2 in 1958. It was written by Ian Samwell, a member of Cliff’s original backing group, the Drifters (not to be confused with the American singing group), produced by Norrie Paramor and recorded on 24 July 1958. It was originally intended as the B-side to Schoolboy Crush, released on 29 August 1958, but Jack Good, producer of the TV show Oh Boy! suggested switching the tracks. It is credited with being one of the first authentic rock ‘n’ roll numbers produced outside the United States and described by Richard himself as ‘my one outstanding rock ‘n’ roll classic’.

The personnel on the recording were Cliff Richard (vocals), Ian Samwell (rhythm guitar) and Terry Smart (drums), with session musicians Ernie Shear (lead guitar) and Frank Clarke (upright bass).

Here is a 1960 TV performance with Cliff and the Shadows (successsors to the Drifters): Bruce Welch, Jet Harris, Hank Marvin and Tony Meehan.

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