In the early ’90s, music was undergoing a transformation. Genres were blending, and artists were experimenting with new sounds. One standout example of this musical evolution is the 1992 single “Shake Your Head” by Was (Not Was), featuring Ozzy Osbourne and Kim Basinger. This track not only showcased a unique collaboration but also became a defining moment in the fusion of rock, pop, and dance music.
🎤 The Origins of “Shake Your Head”
“Shake Your Head” was originally recorded in 1983 by Was (Not Was), an American pop rock group known for their eclectic style and satirical lyrics. The 1983 version featured Ozzy Osbourne on lead vocals, marking a surprising yet intriguing collaboration between the heavy metal icon and the funk-infused band. Interestingly, a pre-fame Madonna also recorded vocals for the track, but they were not used in the final release.
Fast forward to 1992, and the song was reimagined. With the rise of house music and dance culture, Was (Not Was) decided to remix “Shake Your Head” to appeal to a broader audience. The 1992 version featured re-recorded vocals by Ozzy Osbourne and actress Kim Basinger, who had recently gained fame for her role in Batman (1989). The remix was handled by renowned house music producer Steve “Silk” Hurley, who infused the track with a danceable groove, making it a club favorite.
🌟 The Star-Studded Collaboration
The pairing of Ozzy Osbourne and Kim Basinger on “Shake Your Head” was nothing short of sensational. Ozzy, known for his heavy metal roots, brought his distinctive voice and energy to the track, while Kim Basinger’s sultry vocals added a touch of glamour and intrigue. Their combined performance created a dynamic contrast that captivated listeners and added to the song’s allure.
Initially, Was (Not Was) had planned to include Madonna’s original vocals in the 1992 version. However, due to licensing issues, Madonna’s vocals were replaced with Basinger’s. This change turned out to be fortuitous, as Basinger’s contribution brought a fresh and compelling dimension to the song.
🎧 Musical Style and Production
The 1992 remix of “Shake Your Head” is a seamless blend of funk, pop, and house music. Steve “Silk” Hurley’s production added a modern dance beat to the track, making it suitable for both radio play and club rotation. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, urging listeners to “shake your head and go to bed,” resonated with a wide audience and became a staple in dance clubs.
The track’s success was also bolstered by its inclusion in Was (Not Was)’s compilation album Hello Dad… I’m in Jail, which aimed to reintroduce the band to the music scene. The album featured a mix of new tracks and remixes, with “Shake Your Head” standing out as a highlight.
Video
📈 Chart Success and Cultural Impact
“Shake Your Head” achieved significant commercial success, particularly in the United Kingdom. The single peaked at number four on the UK Singles Chart, marking Was (Not Was)’s highest-charting single. Its success was a testament to the growing popularity of dance music and the willingness of artists to experiment with different genres.
The song’s impact extended beyond the charts. Its music video, which featured Ozzy Osbourne and Kim Basinger, received heavy rotation on music television channels, further cementing its place in pop culture. The track also found its way into various compilations and retrospectives, highlighting its enduring appeal.
💿 Formats and Availability
“Shake Your Head” was released in multiple formats, catering to different audiences and collectors. The 7″ vinyl single included the radio edit of the track, while the 12″ vinyl featured extended remixes, offering a deeper dive into the song’s dance elements. The CD single included additional tracks, providing fans with more content from Was (Not Was).
For collectors and enthusiasts, finding original pressings of these formats can be a rewarding experience. Online marketplaces and record stores occasionally offer these items, allowing fans to own a piece of music history.
🎥 The Music Video: A Visual Spectacle
The music video for “Shake Your Head” is as eclectic as the song itself. Directed by renowned filmmaker David Fincher, the video features surreal imagery and creative storytelling that complements the track’s quirky lyrics and upbeat tempo. Ozzy Osbourne and Kim Basinger deliver charismatic performances, adding to the video’s appeal.
The video’s unique style and direction contributed to its popularity on music television channels, where it garnered a significant number of views and became a talking point among fans and critics alike.
🧠 Legacy and Influence
“Shake Your Head” remains a standout track in the careers of Ozzy Osbourne, Kim Basinger, and Was (Not Was). It showcased the potential of cross-genre collaborations and highlighted the evolving landscape of early ’90s music. The song’s success paved the way for other artists to experiment with blending different musical styles, influencing the direction of pop and dance music in the years that followed.
For fans of Ozzy Osbourne, “Shake Your Head” offers a glimpse into his versatility as an artist, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different musical genres. For Kim Basinger, the track added another layer to her multifaceted career, showcasing her vocal talents in a new light. For Was (Not Was), the song marked a high point in their musical journey, reflecting their innovative approach to music-making.
📺 Watch the Official Music Video
Experience the magic of “Shake Your Head” by watching the official music video below. Witness the unique collaboration between Ozzy Osbourne and Kim Basinger, set to the infectious beats of Was (Not Was).
🔍 Final Thoughts
“Shake Your Head” by Was (Not Was), featuring Ozzy Osbourne and Kim Basinger, is a testament to the creativity and experimentation that defined early ’90s music. Its fusion of rock, pop, and dance elements created a timeless track that continues to resonate with listeners. Whether you’re a fan of the artists involved or simply appreciate innovative music, “Shake Your Head” is a song worth revisiting.