Ring My Bell - A Funky Throwback by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince

If you're familiar with the work of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince , then you know that they often have a playful and accessible approach to hip-hop. One of their standout tracks from the early 90s is “Ring My Bell” . This song is a cover of the disco song of Anita Ward from 1979, and DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince knew how to give it their own funky twist, like only they can.

Ring My Bell Background

The original song by Anita Ward became a big hit in the late 70s and was a typical disco song that perfectly suited the music style of the time. Then DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince decided to re-release it in 1991, they brought a fresh hip-hop flair to it. With Will Smith at the microphone and DJ Jazzy Jeff behind the turntables, it became a unique mix of old-school disco and the emerging hip-hop sounds of the 90s.

Their version of “Ring My Bell” maintains the original's recognizable melody, but Will Smith adds his signature playful and humorous style of rapping. His lyrical skills combine nostalgia with a fresh and modern approach to music, which made both disco and hip-hop fans appreciate this song.

The Success of Ring My Bell

Although “Ring My Bell” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince didn't become as big a hit as some of their other tracks like Summertime whether Parents Just Don't Understand , it was a popular track among their fans. The song appeared on their fourth studio album “Homebase” from 1991, which, by the way, also the iconic Summertime contained. This album marked their definitive breakthrough to a wider audience.