Tommy Boy Tuesday: House of Pain - "Jump Around"

"Jump Around" is an iconic single by the American hip hop group House of Pain, known for their energetic blend of rap and rock. Produced by DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill, the song was released in May 1992 as the lead single from their debut album, also titled "House of Pain." With its catchy hooks and infectious beats, "Jump Around" quickly became a massive hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

The song's popularity extended beyond the United States, as it made a significant impact in the United Kingdom. Although the initial release had been a minor hit, a re-release in 1993 propelled it to number eight on the UK Singles Chart. The track's success earned it several accolades and rankings on esteemed music lists. Q Magazine placed it at number 580 on their list of the "1001 Best Songs Ever," while VH1 ranked it at number 24 on their "100 Greatest Songs of the 90s" and number 66 on their "100 Greatest Songs of Hip Hop." Blender magazine included it at number 325 on their "500 Greatest Songs Since You Were Born," and NME positioned it at number 47 on their "100 Best Songs of the 1990s."

"Jump Around" also garnered recognition for its impact on different charts. In addition to its high placement on the Billboard Hot 100, it reached number five on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart and number 17 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. In Canada, the single peaked at number seven on the RPM Dance/Urban chart and number 45 on the RPM Top Singles chart. The song's success extended to Europe, where it entered the top 10 in Ireland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. It achieved a notable position of number eight in its second run on the UK Singles Chart. Furthermore, the track made it to the top 30 in Belgium and Sweden, as well as reaching number 30 on the Eurochart Hot 100.

Outside of its chart success, "Jump Around" received certifications for its sales achievements. It earned gold records in Australia and the UK, with 35,000 and 400,000 singles sold, respectively. In the US, the single was certified platinum, surpassing one million units sold.

Critics and music enthusiasts have praised "Jump Around" for its memorable elements. Bill Lamb of About.com ranked it as one of the "Top 10 Pop Songs of 1992," highlighting its distinctive saxophone sample from Jr. Walker and the All Stars that opens each bar. Lamb described the song as a riveting blend of rap and rock, capable of leaving a lasting impression. Rob Theakston from AllMusic described the track as a "dynamite classic," emphasizing its timeless and energetic appeal. NME ranked "Jump Around" number six on their list of the "Singles of the Year" in December 1992. The publication later featured it in their list of the "100 Best Songs of the 1990s," describing it as an irresistible, ultimate floorfiller and floor-destroyer. Q Magazine also acknowledged the song's greatness by including it in their list of the "1001 Best Songs Ever" in 2003.

"Jump Around" remains a beloved and influential track, exemplifying the fusion of rap and rock genres while delivering an infectious and high-energy experience that continues to resonate with audiences.

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