Let's Get It Started

Let's Get It Started is a Grammy Award-winning single by American hip hop group The Black Eyed Peas, released in 2004 from their third studio album, Elephunk. The track, an energetic reworking of the album's original song "Let's Get Retarded," was strategically re-released with revised lyrics to achieve broader radio play and mainstream appeal. It became a global anthem for sports events and celebrations, significantly boosting the group's commercial profile and cementing their transition into pop-oriented music. The song's success was propelled by its inclusion in major media like the NBA and films such as *Shall We Dance?*.

Background and release

The song originated as "Let's Get Retarded," a track on The Black Eyed Peas' 2003 album Elephunk. Following the breakout success of the single "Where Is the Love?" with Justin Timberlake, the group and their label, A&M Records, sought another hit to capitalize on their momentum. The decision was made to re-record the song with entirely new, party-friendly lyrics to avoid controversy and make it suitable for widespread broadcasting, including major sporting events. This revised version, retitled "Let's Get It Started," was serviced to radio in mid-2004 and later included on re-pressings of Elephunk. Its release was strategically timed to coincide with the 2004 NBA Playoffs, where it was heavily promoted by the league, and it was also featured on the soundtrack for the film *Shall We Dance?* starring Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez.

Composition and musical style

Musically, "Let's Get It Started" is an uptempo fusion of hip hop and dance-pop, built around a driving, synth-heavy beat crafted by producer will.i.am. The track features call-and-response vocals between members will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo, and Fergie, who had recently joined the group. Its composition utilizes a four-on-the-floor rhythm, blaring horn stabs, and a repetitive, chant-like chorus designed for maximum audience participation. The lyrical shift from the original version removed all potentially offensive content, instead focusing on universal themes of celebration, dancing, and party initiation. This stylistic pivot aligned with the group's work with collaborator Terence Yoshiaki and reflected the broader, more accessible sound they developed after Elephunk.

Critical reception and legacy

Upon release, "Let's Get It Started" received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its infectious energy and clever rebranding from the original album cut. The song's cultural impact was solidified when it won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group at the 47th Annual Grammy Awards, defeating tracks by artists like Kanye West and Jay-Z. It is frequently cited as one of the quintessential party anthems of the 2000s and has been used extensively in television, film, and advertising, including promotions for the NBA and the NFL. The track is considered a landmark in The Black Eyed Peas' career, marking their full embrace of pop sensibilities and paving the way for subsequent mega-hits like "My Humps" and "Boom Boom Pow."

Chart performance

The single achieved significant commercial success internationally, peaking at number 21 on the US *Billboard* Hot 100 and reaching the top 10 in several countries. In the United Kingdom, it charted at number 11 on the UK Singles Chart, while it achieved top-five placements in markets such as Australia, Canada, and Germany. The song performed exceptionally well on *Billboard*'s component charts, topping the Hot Dance Club Songs chart and reaching number four on the Mainstream Top 40 airplay chart. Its strong digital sales and sustained radio airplay helped the parent album, Elephunk, achieve multi-platinum certifications worldwide from organizations like the RIAA.

Music video and live performances

The music video, directed by Francis Lawrence, features The Black Eyed Peas performing the song in a stark, industrial-style building intercut with vibrant scenes of diverse people dancing and celebrating. It received heavy rotation on channels like MTV and BET. The group has performed the song at numerous high-profile events, including the NBA All-Star Game, the MTV Video Music Awards, and during their set as part of the Super Bowl halftime show with Usher. Notable live renditions also occurred during their tours supporting Monkey Business and on television programs such as *Saturday Night Live* and *Top of the Pops*. The track remains a staple in their concert setlists, often used as an opening or closing number to energize crowds.

Category:2004 songs Category:The Black Eyed Peas songs Category:Grammy Award-winning songs