Released in 1986, “Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles is a quintessential 1980s pop hit that captured the era’s spirit with its catchy melody, quirky lyrics, and distinctive beat. The song’s blend of new wave energy and playful lyrics made it a massive commercial success and a defining track of the decade, showcasing The Bangles’ unique ability to combine pop sensibilities with a touch of eccentricity.

Musically, “Walk Like an Egyptian” is built on a foundation of jangly guitars, a driving beat, and an infectious rhythm that’s impossible to resist. The song opens with a hypnotic, syncopated rhythm that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. The use of a drum machine, combined with the live instrumentation, gives the track a distinctive sound that blends the synthetic with the organic, a hallmark of 1980s pop production. The song’s structure is simple yet effective, with verses that build up to the instantly recognizable chorus.

Lyrically, “Walk Like an Egyptian” is a playful and somewhat surreal take on global cultural references, with the central image of “walking like an Egyptian” serving as a metaphor for adopting a carefree, detached attitude. The lyrics describe various people in different settings—from the streets of New York City to the desert sands—mimicking the ancient Egyptian posture seen in hieroglyphs. The chorus, with its catchy “Walk like an Egyptian” refrain, is both humorous and memorable, inviting listeners to join in on the fun. The lyrics don’t take themselves too seriously, adding to the song’s whimsical charm.

The vocal performances of The Bangles’ members—Susanna Hoffs, Vicki Peterson, and Michael Steele—are a key element of the song’s appeal. Each member takes turns singing the verses, adding a dynamic and varied texture to the track. Hoffs’ sultry, slightly detached vocal style complements the song’s laid-back vibe, while the harmonies in the chorus are tight and polished, showcasing the group’s pop prowess. The varied vocal approach keeps the song engaging and gives each band member a moment to shine.

The production of “Walk Like an Egyptian,” helmed by David Kahne, is crisp and polished, capturing the essence of 1980s pop while infusing it with a unique flair. The song’s use of a whistle and the prominent bassline gives it a playful, almost cartoonish quality that matches the lighthearted lyrics. The production balances the quirky elements with a solid pop foundation, ensuring that the song remains radio-friendly while also standing out from the crowd.

The music video for “Walk Like an Egyptian” played a significant role in the song’s success, featuring The Bangles performing the song intercut with scenes of people in various locations performing the “Egyptian” walk. The video’s humorous and irreverent tone matched the song’s playful lyrics and helped cement its place in pop culture. The imagery of people from all walks of life—construction workers, businesspeople, and even pedestrians on the street—imitating the Egyptian walk added to the song’s appeal and made it a visual as well as auditory phenomenon.

“Walk Like an Egyptian” achieved tremendous commercial success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the biggest hits of 1986. Its success can be attributed to its catchy melody, humorous lyrics, and the way it captured the carefree, fun-loving spirit of the 1980s. The song’s impact extended beyond the charts, becoming a cultural touchstone and a signature song for The Bangles.

In conclusion, “Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles is a timeless pop classic that embodies the playful, vibrant energy of the 1980s. With its infectious rhythm, quirky lyrics, and engaging vocal performances, the song remains a beloved track that continues to bring joy to listeners. The Bangles’ ability to create a song that is both fun and musically compelling is evident in the enduring popularity of “Walk Like an Egyptian.”