What makes What Up, Dog? by Was (Not Was) notable?

The album features the widely recognized single 'Walk the Dinosaur,' which became a significant pop culture phenomenon and has been featured in various media, including films and commercials. Its success helped elevate Was (Not Was) into the limelight, influencing subsequent dance-pop artists with its playful yet socially conscious lyrics. What Up, Dog? was Was (Not Was)'s third studio album, released in 1988 during a period of growing popularity following their breakthrough with the hit 'Walk the Dinosaur.' At this point, the band had solidified their unique blend of genres and quirky storytelling, showcasing their eclectic style as they transitioned from underground fame to mainstream recognition.

How many songs are on What Up, Dog??

What Up, Dog? has 16 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

What Up, Dog?

Was (Not Was) · 1988

57 min · 16 tracks · dance-pop

A vibrant mix of dance-pop and funk with playful lyrics and infectious grooves that invite movement.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Walk the Dinosaur — This track epitomizes the band's blend of catchy hooks and humorous storytelling, becoming their signature song and a cultural touchstone of the late '80s.
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Spy in the House of Love — The track combines a funk-inspired groove with clever lyrical commentary on love and relationships, encapsulating the album's playful yet insightful tone.
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Out Come the Freaks — This song showcases the band’s knack for blending diverse musical influences while addressing themes of individuality and eccentricity, making it a standout on the album.
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Earth to Doris — With its whimsical narrative and upbeat sound, this track highlights the band's ability to fuse humor with catchy melodies, exemplifying their unique style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album features strong grooves and playful lyrics, making it distinctive in the dance-pop genre.

What we noticed

Several songs feature call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the interactive feel of the music.
The track 'Walk the Dinosaur' includes a prominent horn section and a danceable beat, which has contributed to its lasting popularity.
The sequencing alternates between high-energy tracks and more laid-back tunes, maintaining listener engagement throughout.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Somewhere in America There’s a Street Named After My Dad 3:41
2 Spy in the House of Love 4:16
3 Out Come the Freaks 4:35
4 Earth to Doris 2:03
5 Love Can Be Bad Luck 3:46
6 Boy’s Gone Crazy 3:39
7 11 MPH (Abe Zapp Ruder version) 4:04
8 What Up, Dog? 1:45
9 Anything Can Happen 3:56
10 Robot Girl 3:42
11 Wedding Vows in Vegas 3:37
12 Anytime Lisa 4:14
13 Walk the Dinosaur 4:21
14 I Can’t Turn You Loose 3:37
15 Shadow and Jimmy 4:16
16 Dad I’m in Jail 1:26

What to play next

Listen next

Are You Okay?

1990

Go back to

Born to Laugh at Tornadoes

1983

Full Was (Not Was) discography Artists like Was (Not Was)

dance-pop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata