Jonathan Richman, I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar | Wacky Wednesday

In the 31st edition of Wacky Wednesday (2025), we break down the unique “I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar,” performed by Jonathan Richman.

Do you know what day it is? It is Wednesday, folks! Do you know what that means? Why, it is Wacky Wednesday! In the spirited column Wacky Wednesday, we analyze, break down, and explore songs from various musicians of various genres that can be considered unique, unusual, or ‘wacky.’  These songs can be new or old; the only requirement is that they ‘catch the ears’ because of their distinctiveness.  With the background established, in the 31^st edition of Wacky Wednesday (2025), we break down the unique “I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar”, performed by Jonathan Richman. Wacky Wednesday vibes commence!

“Well, I was dancing at a nightclub one Friday night / And that nightclub was a little uptight.” Bummer! That sucks, Jonathan Richman (1951 – )! I mean, you go out to have fun, not be self-conscious, as he confesses in the first verse of “I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar”. So, who saves him from this awkward, unfun nightclub experience? The lesbians! “‘For dancing come with us’ / And soon… / I was dancing in a lesbian bar, ah-hoo, ah-oo / I was dancing in a lesbian bar, ooh, ooh, ooh.” Ooh-wee, what a difference the venue, and the patrons in that venue make! “I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar” is the fifth track from his 1992 album, I, Jonathan. Richman wrote this infectious, unforgettable gem while Brennan Totten produced it. Can I get a “ooh, ooh, ooh!”

As Richman tells us his initial experience, “I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar” begins dramatically.  Guitar is the sole accompaniment, with Jonathan Richman’s vocals and beautiful, warm background vocals. After feeling free, the guitar establishes a stable, chordal rhythmic groove. The bass and drums enter the mix, providing an anchor and firm foundation for Richman to deliver an entertaining performance on this novel record. He consistently delivers expressive, well-rounded vocals, bringing the tuneful melodies and striking lyrics to life. “Well, the first bar things were alright / But in this bar, things were Friday night,” he asserts in the first pre-chorus. Later, he continues to compare the differences, including “Well in the first bar things were stop and stare/ But in this bar things were laissez-faire,” and “ In the first bar folks were drinking sips / But in this bar they could shake their hips.” Woo! Beyond their initial appearance, the background vocals are one of my favorite touches, providing sweet harmonies. The verses are rad (“… I was there to check the scene / And hang around”), as are the comparative pre-choruses, but the best section of the song should come as no surprise: the chorus, which highlights the titular lyric. Ultimately, “I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar” is one of the most fun songs you’ll ever hear.  If you haven’t heard it, you are sadly missing out. Jonathan Richman put his foot into this one.  He can thank the lesbians for allowing him to have fun! Notably, They Might Be Giants covered it.