Let's Get It Started

"Let's Get It Started" is a song by American group the Black Eyed Peas. It is a clean version of the original "Let's Get Retarded" from their third studio album, Elephunk (2003). The album version was originally only reworked for its use in promotion for the 2004 NBA playoffs on ABC in April 2004, and the clean version was released as the fourth and final single from Elephunk on June 1, 2004, by A&M Records and Interscope Records; it also appears on a reissue of the album.

"Let's Get It Started" peaked at number 21 on the US Billboard Hot 100, reaching the top ten in Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, France and New Zealand. Critically acclaimed, it won Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group at the 47th Annual Grammy Awards (2005), and was also nominated for Record of the Year and Best Rap Song. The song's accompanying music video features the group energetically performing in a nighttime Los Angeles setting.

"Let's Get It Started" was remixed for the Black Eyed Peas' fifth studio album The E.N.D. (2009) as "Let's Get Re-Started"; it is included on its deluxe edition bonus disc. It was also featured on their remix album The E.N.D. Summer 2010 Canadian Invasion Tour: Remix Collection (2010). In early 2022, "Let's Get Retarded" was replaced with "Let's Get It Started" on the track listing of Elephunk on all digital and streaming platforms;[non-primary source needed][non-primary source needed][non-primary source needed] however, it is still available with the purchase of the full Let's Get It Started – EP release in the iTunes Store.[non-primary source needed]

Background

The song grew out of a track from Busta Rhymes' old group Leaders of the New School. The track was from the album T.I.M.E.. The Arc of the United States successfully lobbied The Black Eyed Peas’ recording company to change the original title of the song from "Let's Get Retarded" to "Let's Get It Started."

Music video

The music video for "Let's Get It Started" takes place in a nighttime setting on a Los Angeles street. It features the Black Eyed Peas, particularly will.i.am, performing energetic dances while singing the song, while varying objects in the background (including a grand piano) smash against the ground in real time, slow and fast motion, and in reverse. The choruses feature the band on stage singing to a large crowd.

Track listings

Personnel

Charts

Certifications

Release history