5 Shocking Facts About "That's The Way (I Like It)": The Song That Was Too Risqué For 1975

Few songs define the pure, unadulterated joy of the disco era quite like "That's The Way (I Like It)." Released in 1975 by the American funk and disco powerhouse KC and the Sunshine Band, the track became an instant, global phenomenon that cemented the band’s status as musical icons. However, beneath its irresistible rhythm and simple, catchy chorus lies a surprising history of controversy, creative re-recording, and chart dominance that few fans know about, making its legacy far more complex than a simple dance floor anthem.

As of December 15, 2025, the song continues to be a staple in film, television, and radio, proving its enduring appeal nearly five decades later. Its upbeat tempo and infectious energy have transcended generations, but the story of its creation—particularly the sexual innuendo that almost derailed its success—is a deep dive into the cultural anxieties of the mid-70s and the genius of its creators, Harry Wayne Casey and Richard Finch.

The Essential Profile: KC and the Sunshine Band's Masterpiece

The song "That's The Way (I Like It)" is arguably the most recognizable track from the band’s second, self-titled album. Its composition is a masterclass in the emerging Miami Sound, blending R&B, funk, and a vibrant Latin percussion groove. The track is notable for its sparse, yet incredibly effective arrangement, built around a driving bassline, tight brass section, and the unmistakable, falsetto-tinged vocals of Harry Wayne Casey (KC).

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

• Song Title: That's The Way (I Like It)
• Artist: KC and the Sunshine Band
• Album: KC and the Sunshine Band
• Released: 1975 (as the second single)
• Writers: Harry Wayne Casey and Richard Finch
• Genre: Disco, Funk, Dance-Pop
• Key Collaborators: Jerome Smith (Guitar), Willie Clarke (Producer, TK Records)
• Record Label: TK Records
• Notable Successors: "Get Down Tonight," "Shake Your Booty," "Boogie Shoes"

The song’s success was immediate and overwhelming, propelling the band to international stardom and positioning them alongside other disco legends like Chic, Donna Summer, and the Bee Gees. It was a pivotal moment in the history of dance music, proving that the genre could produce massive, crossover pop hits.

1. The Secret Re-Recording: How the Song Was Made "Less Sexual"

The most fascinating and least-known fact about "That's The Way (I Like It)" centers on its initial release and the subsequent controversy over its risqué lyrics. The song’s chorus—"That's the way, uh-huh, uh-huh, I like it"—was deliberately suggestive, with the "uh-huh" intended to sound like a guttural, sexual groan or expression of pleasure.

The original recording was deemed too explicit for mainstream radio play in certain conservative markets. To circumvent this censorship and ensure maximum airplay, the band and their label, TK Records, took an extraordinary step: they re-recorded the vocal track.

• The Unseen Story Jessica Simpsons Battle For Privacy And Body Image In A Digital Age Mlvqa

• The Original Groan: The first version featured a deep, guttural "uh-huh" meant to evoke a sexual moan, which was considered too provocative for 1975 radio.
• The Clean-Up: The band re-recorded the vocals, changing the suggestive "uh-huh" into a cleaner, lighter, and more ambiguous vocal exclamation.
• The Result: This re-recorded version is the one that became the global hit, allowing it to be played on stations that would have otherwise banned the track, demonstrating a clever tactic to navigate the moral gatekeepers of the 1970s pop music scene.

2. A Rare Chart Feat: Hitting No. 1 Twice in One Month

"That's The Way (I Like It)" achieved a chart performance so unusual that it remains a unique footnote in pop music history, demonstrating the song's intense popularity and the volatile nature of the Billboard Hot 100 at the time. The song first reached the summit of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in late 1975.

However, due to a quirk in how sales and airplay were calculated, or perhaps the sheer competitive nature of the disco era, the song dropped from the No. 1 spot, only to climb back to No. 1 a short time later, all within a single month. This makes it one of the few songs in the chart’s history to achieve this rare feat of non-consecutive No. 1 placements in such a short period, proving its immense staying power and demand from both radio programmers and record buyers.

3. The Dead Or Alive Cover: A New Wave Reinvention

The song’s infectious nature made it a prime candidate for covers and reinventions, but none are as famous or as culturally significant as the 1984 version by the British new wave band Dead Or Alive.

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

Fronted by the flamboyant Pete Burns, Dead Or Alive took the funk and disco elements of the original and transformed it into a quintessential 80s dance-pop anthem. Their version, while retaining the core melody, was infused with the heavy synthesizers and electronic drums characteristic of the New Wave and Hi-NRG genres. This cover introduced the song to an entirely new generation of listeners who were unfamiliar with the 70s disco sound. The track became a major hit for Dead Or Alive, especially in the UK and on international dance charts, proving the timeless quality of the original composition by KC and Finch.

4. The Songwriting Duo: Harry Wayne Casey and Richard Finch

The brilliance of "That's The Way (I Like It)" lies squarely on the shoulders of its creators, Harry Wayne Casey (KC) and bassist Richard Finch. This duo was the creative engine behind virtually all of KC and the Sunshine Band's biggest funk hits. Their partnership was a perfect storm of musical talent:

• KC's Vision: Casey focused on the catchy melodies, the lyrical hooks, and the unmistakable vocal delivery. He was the face and voice of the band.
• Finch's Production & Rhythm: Finch was a master of the rhythm section, responsible for the tight, driving basslines and the signature four-on-the-floor beat that defined Disco Music. His production work gave the band its distinctive, irresistible groove.

Together, they pioneered the Miami Sound, a vibrant blend of funk and Latin percussion that was distinct from the Philadelphia or New York disco scenes. Their work on this single, along with other hits like "Get Down Tonight" and "Shake Your Booty," earned them Grammy Awards and established a musical legacy that continues to influence modern dance-pop and R&B music.

5. An Enduring Legacy in Pop Culture and Modern Music

Decades after its release, "That's The Way (I Like It)" remains a cultural touchstone. Its simple, powerful message of self-expression and pleasure has made it a favorite for filmmakers and advertisers looking for an instantly recognizable, feel-good anthem.

The song has been featured prominently in dozens of movies and TV shows, solidifying its place in the pop culture lexicon. Furthermore, its iconic rhythmic structure has made it a popular choice for music sampling in hip-hop and electronic music, extending its influence into the modern era. Artists frequently sample the distinct drum breaks and guitar riffs to inject a shot of classic 70s funk into their contemporary tracks. The enduring popularity of KC and the Sunshine Band, who continue to tour and perform their classic disco hits to sold-out crowds, is a testament to the timeless energy of this single, proving that for millions of fans, this is still the way they like it.