Meaning of "Shake" by Otis Redding

The lyrics of "Shake" celebrate the joy and freedom of movement, specifically through the act of shaking one's body. The repetitive chants of "Shake" serve as a call to action, urging individuals to let loose, have fun, and embrace the rhythm. The references to shaking early in the morning, late in the evening, and in the midnight hour suggest that this act is not confined to a specific time of day but can be enjoyed at any moment. The mention of doing the thing with soul highlights the importance of putting one's authentic self into whatever they do, in this case, shaking. Overall, the song conveys a message of uninhibited expression and the transformative power of music and movement.