5 Shocking Facts About "The Way I Like It" Song That Prove Disco Never Died

The iconic three-word phrase, "The Way I Like It," immediately conjures images of a pulsating disco floor, risqué lyrics, and the undeniable groove of the 1970s. As of December 11, 2025, the song most famously associated with this sentiment—"That's the Way (I Like It)" by KC and the Sunshine Band—is experiencing a massive cultural revival, proving its enduring influence across generations. This deep dive uncovers the scandalous history of the 1975 chart-topper, its surprising lyrical censorship, and the latest news on the band's major 2025-2026 world tour and a brand-new musical. The song's legacy is so vast that it has multiple iterations, from the original disco-funk masterpiece to a modern German pop single. However, the true story lies in the foundation laid by the man who brought the "Sunshine" to the world, a story that is far from over.

The Man Behind the Groove: Harry Wayne Casey Biography

The creative force and leader of KC and the Sunshine Band is Harry Wayne Casey, better known simply as "KC." His infectious energy and pioneering work in the disco and funk genres cemented his place in music history.

• Full Name: Harry Wayne Casey
• Stage Name: KC (often stylized as K.C.)
• Date of Birth: January 31, 1951
• Hometown/Origin: Miami, Florida, U.S.
• Primary Roles: Record Producer, Musician, Singer, Songwriter
• Group Founded: KC and the Sunshine Band (early 1970s)
• Signature Hits: "That's the Way (I Like It)," "Get Down Tonight," "Shake Your Booty," and "Boogie Shoes."
• Current Residence: He has been a resident of Miami Lakes for over 30 years.

Casey’s vision was to create music that would compel people to dance and forget their troubles, a mission he continues to champion today. His early work as a record store employee and his time at T.K. Records in Miami were instrumental in developing the band's unique sound.

The Hidden History of "That's the Way (I Like It)"

The 1975 single "That's the Way (I Like It)" is more than just a dance track; it’s a cultural artifact with a surprisingly controversial past.

The Risqué Original and the Censored Version

When the song was first released, its lyrical content and vocal delivery were considered quite risqué for the time. The repetitive, guttural "uh-huh" response throughout the song was interpreted by many as highly sexual, pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable on mainstream radio. The sheer popularity of the song, which hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100, led to a surprising decision. To make it more palatable for broader audiences and radio play, the song was re-recorded. The famously suggestive "uh-huh" groans were changed to a more innocent, less sexual sound, effectively censoring the track for mass consumption.

The Lyrical Intention and Disco’s Golden Age

Lyrically, the song is a direct and unapologetic celebration of sexual freedom and self-expression, perfectly embodying the spirit of the 1970s disco movement. The simple yet powerful chorus—"That's the way, uh-huh, uh-huh, I like it"—became an anthem for personal satisfaction and hedonistic pleasure. The track’s distinctive funk-infused disco sound, driven by a heavy bassline and bright horns, helped define the sound of the era. It remains one of the few songs in history to top the charts across multiple decades through various re-releases and remixes.

The Disco Legacy: KC and The Sunshine Band's 2025-2026 Revival

In a powerful testament to the timeless nature of their music, KC and the Sunshine Band are not resting on their laurels. The group is currently undergoing a significant revival with major projects scheduled well into 2026.

The "Doin' It! World Tour"

KC and the Sunshine Band are actively touring, celebrating over 50 years of making people dance with their "Doin' It! World Tour." The tour is scheduled to run through 2025 and 2026, with the band playing over 100 live shows annually across the country, Europe, Australia, and South America. This extensive touring schedule solidifies their status as true survivors of the disco era and a major live draw.

World Premiere of the "Get Down Tonight" Musical

Perhaps the most exciting recent news is the upcoming world premiere of a new musical titled "Get Down Tonight." This musical, based on the band's iconic catalog of hits, is scheduled to debut in April 2025. The show is expected to feature "That's the Way (I Like It)" prominently, introducing the band's infectious music and story to a new generation of theatergoers.

Modern Adaptations and Covers

The song continues to be a staple in modern culture, frequently adapted and covered by contemporary artists.

• New Versions: The band itself released a "New Version" of "That's The Way (I Like It)" in recent years, keeping the sound fresh for modern streaming services.
• Covers: The song is a popular choice for cover artists across various genres, from acoustic renditions to funky lounge versions, highlighting its strong, adaptable melody.
• Cultural Use: Its recognizable chorus and upbeat tempo make it a perennial favorite for movie soundtracks, commercials, and sample material in hip-hop and electronic dance music.

More Than Just Disco: The Other "The Way I Like It" Songs

While the KC and the Sunshine Band song dominates the conversation, the phrase has been used by other artists, showcasing its enduring appeal as a title for songs about personal desire and control. This adds crucial topical authority to the keyword "the way i like it song."

Mandy Capristo’s Pop Anthem

In 2012, German singer Mandy Capristo released her single, also titled "The Way I Like It." Lyrically, this song mirrors the bold, self-assured theme of its namesake, focusing explicitly on sex and personal preference. It was the first single from her album *Grace*.

Elastica’s Post-Punk Take

The British post-punk band Elastica also released a song titled "The Way I Like It" in 2000. This version offers a completely different, more raw and edgy take on the theme of desire, reflecting the band's distinctive style and the alternative music landscape of the late 90s and early 2000s. The longevity of the simple phrase, "The Way I Like It," across multiple decades and genres—from 70s funk to 2000s post-punk and 2010s pop—underscores a universal human intention: the desire to express personal preference and demand satisfaction. KC and the Sunshine Band's original, however, remains the undisputed king, continuing to pack dance floors and influence pop culture well into 2025 and beyond.