From the recording Out of the Shadows
"Dance the Night Away" kicks off Out of the Shadows with pure joy and celebration. Driven by an infectious “do-do-do” hook and a breezy, upbeat rhythm, the track captures the magic of life’s simple pleasures—dancing under the stars, love in its purest form, and the freedom of living in the moment.
Initially born from a playful piano melody, the song evolved into a soulful celebration of life and connection, with lyrics co-written by Shannon Smith and Helen Townsend. Its feel-good energy sets the perfect tone for the album, reminding listeners to leave their worries behind and embrace the magic of now.
Written by Shannon Smith
Lyrics by Helen Townsend and Shannon SmIth
Arranged by Shannon Smith and Phil Richardson
Musicians:
Shannon Smith - Vocals
Helen Townsend - Backing Vocals
Ben Franz - Bass Guitar
Elliott Smith - Drums
Phil Richardson - Piano, Organ
Dan Carroll - Guitars
Robert Bresland - Trumpet
Catherine Norbet - Trombone
Marek Sprogowski - Tenor Sax
Producers:
Shannon Smith, Helen Townsend, Elliott Smith, Phil Richardson, Ben Franz
Recorded at:
Sundown Studios - Elliott Smith
Rada Studios (Guitars) - Dan Carroll
Crank Studios (Horns) - Lee Buddle
Lyrics
Verse 1
Wake in the morning sun is shining
There is magic in the air
Feels like i am dreaming and it make me wanna sing yeah
Verse 2
The way we swayed beneath the moonlight
The way you held me oh so tight
Your beauty's so delightful
and it makes me wanna sing
Pre-Chorus
Do Do Do Do
Do Do Do Do
Chorus
Lets go driving down the freeway
Feel the wind blow through our hair
Leave our worries all behind us
We can dance the night away
Verse 3
Lets not waste another minute
Or let another slip away
Make it last forever
hold on tighht and say
Pre-Chorus
I Do Do Do Do, I Do Do Do Do, I Do Do Do Do
Chorus
Lets go driving down the freeway
Feel the wind blow through our hair
Leave our worries all behind us
We can dance the night away
Instrumental
Outro
Do Do Do Do