“Walk Like an Egyptian” is a song by the American pop-rock band The Bangles. Released in 1986 as the third single from their second studio album, “Different Light,” it became one of the band’s biggest hits and a defining song of the 1980s.
“Walk Like an Egyptian” was written by American songwriter Liam Sternberg. The inspiration for the song came from watching people struggle to keep their balance on a ferry, which reminded Sternberg of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. He wrote the song with a whimsical and catchy hook, capturing the playful essence of the imagery. The song’s lyrics playfully describe people imitating the poses of ancient Egyptian figures, with the chorus instructing listeners to “Walk like an Egyptian.” The verses mention various scenarios and characters, from school kids and cops to a sargeant and a party scene, all engaging in this distinctive walk. The song’s lighthearted, humorous tone and catchy, repetitive chorus contribute to its infectious appeal.
Musically, “Walk Like an Egyptian” is characterized by its upbeat, danceable rhythm and distinctive use of percussion, including the sound of clapping and whistling. The song features jangly guitar riffs, a prominent bass line, and synthesizer effects that give it a distinct 80s pop sound. Each member of The Bangles takes a turn singing lead vocals on different verses, showcasing the band’s harmonizing abilities.
“Walk Like an Egyptian” was a commercial smash, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States for four weeks. It also achieved significant success internationally, reaching the top in multiple countries, including Germany, Canada, and Australia. In the UK, it peaked at number 3. The song’s widespread popularity helped to solidify The Bangles’ place in pop music history.
The music video for “Walk Like an Egyptian,” directed by Gary Weis, features the band performing the song interspersed with footage of people in various cities mimicking the Egyptian walk. Most of these people were filmed on the streets of New York City. The video captures the playful and quirky nature of the song, with scenes of everyday people, including police officers and schoolchildren, joining in the fun. The band’s vibrant performance and the video’s humorous concept contributed to its heavy rotation on MTV. was nominated for Best Group Video at the 1987 MTV Video Music Awards.