Tucker Smith was a gifted dancer and actor from Philadelphia. His training in ballet and modern dance led him to New York’s theater scene.
Smith’s defining role came as Ice in West Side Story (1961). His performance of Jet Song showed his strong vocal abilities and presence.
Though his film career was limited, Smith continued in theater until his 1988 death. His work in West Side Story remains his most lasting contribution.
About the Song
Jet Song, performed by Tucker Smith as Ice in the 1961 film West Side Story, introduces the Jets gang with its bold declaration of loyalty.
This opening number, with music by Bernstein and lyrics by Sondheim, sets the stage for the territorial conflict central to the musical’s plot.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | December 7, 1961 |
| Album | West Side Story (1961 Motion Picture Soundtrack) |
| Writers | Stephen Sondheim & Leonard Bernstein |
| Producers | Saul Chaplin & Didier C. Deutsch |
Jet Song Lyrics by Tucker Smith
RIFF
When you’re a Jet, you’re a Jet all the way
From your first cigarette to your last dyin’ day
When you’re a Jet, let ’em do what they can
You got brothers around, you’re a family man
You’re never alone
You’re never disconnected
You’re home with your own
When company’s expected
You’re well-protected
Then you are set with a capital J
Which you’ll never forget till they cart you away
When you’re a Jet
You stay a Jet!
spoken
Now I know Tony like I know me. And I guarantee you can count him in.
ACTION, spoken
In, out. Let’s get crackin’!
ICE, spoken
Where you gonna find Bernardo?
BABY JOHN, spoken
It ain’t safe to go into PR territory!
RIFF, spoken
He’ll be at the dance tonight at the gym.
A-RAB, spoken
Yeah, but the gym’s neutral territory!
RIFF, spoken
A-Rab, I’m gonna make nice with him. I’m only gonna challenge him.
ICE, spoken
Great, Daddy-O!
RIFF, spoken
So listen, everybody dress up sweet and sharp. Meet Tony and me at the dance at the ten. And walk tall!
A-RAB, spoken
We always walk tall!
BABY JOHN, spoken
We’re Jets!
BIG DEAL, spoken
The greatest!
SNOWBOY
When you’re a Jet, you’re the top cat in town
You’re the gold-medal kid with the heavyweight crown
ICE
When you’re a Jet, you’re the swingin’est thing
Little boy, you’re a man, little man, you’re a king!
THE JETS
The Jets are in gear
Our cylinders are clickin’
The Sharks’ll steer clear
‘Cause every Puerto Rican’s
A lousy chicken!
Here come the Jets like a bat outta hell
Someone gets in our way, someone don’t feel so well
Here come the Jets, little world, step aside
Better go underground, better run, better hide
We’re drawin’ the line
So keep your noses hidden
We’re hangin’ a sign
Says “Visitors forbidden”
And we ain’t kiddin’
Here come the Jets, yeah! And we’re gonna beat
Every last buggin’ gang on the whole buggin’ street
On the whole buggin’-ever-lovin’ street!
Yeah!
Similar Songs Like Jet Song
These songs share the same energy, tension, and intensity, showcasing themes of rivalry, loyalty, and the struggle for identity, just like Jet Song.
- “Cool“: Performed by Tucker Smith and the Jets, this song emphasizes composure and control amidst tension, highlighting the difference between calmness and chaos in a high-stakes environment.
- “Gee, Officer Krupke“: A humorous critique of authority, performed by Russ Tamblyn and the Jets, showcasing the group’s camaraderie and rebellious spirit while mocking societal expectations and the struggles of youth.
- “Tonight (Quintet) “: Featuring Tucker Smith and other cast members, this ensemble piece highlights gang rivalry and anticipation, showing themes of loyalty, conflict, and the tension between desire and danger.
- “The Rumble“: An instrumental track underscoring gang violence, conveying the intense energy and stakes of conflict, focusing on the heightened emotions and tensions between rival groups.
Similar Artists Like Tucker Smith
If you enjoy Tucker Smith’s blend of theatrical energy and powerful vocals, you might also appreciate these artists with a similar musical style.
- Russ Tamblyn
Genre: Musical Theater, Film Soundtracks
Top Albums: West Side Story (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (1961), Tom Thumb (1958 Soundtrack) - George Chakiris
Genre: Broadway, Dance-Musical
Top Albums: West Side Story (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (1961), Diamond Head (1963 Soundtrack) - Richard Beymer
Genre: Film Soundtracks, Acting
Top Albums: West Side Story (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (1961), The Diary of Anne Frank (1959 Soundtrack) - Carole Cook
Genre: Broadway, Cabaret
Top Albums: Anyone Can Whistle (Broadway Cast Recording) (1964), Vintage ’60 (Stage Compilations)
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Jet Song Appear in West Side Story?
It appears at the beginning of the show, right after the prologue dance sequence. The song serves as an introduction to the Jets gang and their story.
Did Tucker Smith have a Background in Dance?
Yes, Smith was a trained dancer who studied ballet and modern dance, which helped him secure his role in West Side Story.
When did Tucker Smith Pass Away?
Tucker Smith died in 1988 at the age of 52.
