Rod Stewart’s 1978 disco-infused hit, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, catapulted the already successful British rocker into a new realm of pop stardom, while simultaneously sparking controversy. Stewart, known for his raspy vocals, gritty rock anthems like “Maggie May,” and his mod-influenced style, took a sharp turn with this undeniably catchy track. The song topped charts worldwide, reaching number one in the US, Australia, Canada, and several European countries. It solidified its place in pop culture history, becoming a staple of late 70s and early 80s dance floors.
Lyrically, the song chronicles a fleeting encounter between a man and a woman in a bar, fueled by alcohol and mutual attraction. While seemingly superficial on the surface, some interpret the lyrics as a commentary on the anonymity and transient nature of urban life. Others view it simply as a fun, flirty, and undeniably danceable tune. The repetitive, almost hypnotic chorus, paired with the pulsating disco beat, certainly contributed to its widespread appeal.
However, the song’s success was not without its detractors. Critics accused Stewart of selling out, abandoning his rock roots for commercial gain. The song’s blatant embrace of disco, a genre then at its peak but also facing backlash, further fueled this criticism. More seriously, Brazilian musician Jorge Ben Jor accused Stewart of plagiarizing the melody from his song “Taj Mahal.” This resulted in a lawsuit and an eventual agreement where Stewart donated royalties from “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” to UNICEF.
Despite the controversy, the public embraced the song. Its infectious rhythm and simple, relatable lyrics resonated with a wide audience. While some die-hard fans of Stewart’s earlier work may have been disappointed, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” introduced him to a new generation and cemented his status as a versatile and enduring musical icon. The song remains a recognizable and often-played party anthem, a testament to its lasting impact on popular music.
