Stop The World I Want To Get Off – Sammy Davis Jr.’s Wild Ride Through Stage & Screen
Alright, buckle up. We’re diving into Stop The World I Want To Get Off, Sammy Davis Jr.’s 1978 album that’s equal parts chaotic and charming. Released under Warner Bros. Records, this thing is a whirlwind of musical theater vibes with some serious swagger thrown in for good measure. It’s not perfect—hell, it’s kinda messy—but damn if it doesn’t stick to your brain like gum on a hot sidewalk.
First off, let’s talk about “What Kind Of Fool Am I.” Yeah, you’ve heard it before, but here’s the kicker: Sammy makes it his own. He doesn’t just sing; he owns it. You can practically hear him sweating through the mic as he belts out those soul-crushing lyrics. This track hits different because it’s raw, unfiltered emotion wrapped in a bow tie. By the time he gets to the big finish, you're either crying or fist-pumping—or maybe both. That’s the magic of Sammy. Dude didn’t do half-assed performances. Ever.
Then there’s “GONNA BUILD A MOUNTAIN,” which feels like someone took a Broadway number and injected it with espresso shots. It’s loud, brash, and completely over-the-top—but isn’t that what Sammy was all about? The energy is infectious, man. Like, you’ll catch yourself humming it while stuck in traffic, wondering why you suddenly feel pumped to conquer the world (or at least yell at the guy cutting you off).
Now, don’t get me wrong—this album has its share of filler. Tracks like “MUMBO JUMBO” and “LUMBERED” are fun little detours, but they ain’t exactly unforgettable. And yeah, some songs repeat themselves (Meilinki Meilchik, anyone?), which might make you think the producers were slacking off. But honestly? That repetition kinda works. It gives the whole thing this weirdly cohesive vibe, like one giant variety show where Sammy refuses to let you leave.
Here’s the kicker though: listening to this record feels like stepping back in time—not just to 1978, but to an era when music could be bold, imperfect, and dripping with personality. Sammy wasn’t trying to fit into any mold. He smashed molds. Hell, he probably lit them on fire after smashing them.
So yeah, Stop The World I Want To Get Off isn’t gonna win any awards for subtlety or innovation. But who cares? It’s Sammy freaking Davis Jr., and he delivers exactly what you’d expect: a wild, uneven, yet oddly satisfying ride. If nothing else, it reminds you that life’s too short to play it safe. Now go listen to it—and try not to laugh when you realize how many times he says “Meilinki.” Trust me, it’s worth it.
