The Cup Song, popularized by the movie “Pitch Perfect,” is a fun and rhythmic performance using a cup and handclaps. Learning it might seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, anyone can master this entertaining trick. This guide provides clear instructions and helpful tips to get you started.
Mastering the Cup Song Basics
The Cup Song requires just a few simple items: a plastic cup (a standard Solo cup works best) and a table with a fabric surface for optimal sound. Once you have these, you’re ready to begin learning the basic rhythm.
Here’s a breakdown of the steps:
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Starting Position: Place the cup upside down on the table in front of you.
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Clap: Clap your hands twice.
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Tap the Bottom: Tap the bottom of the cup three times with your right hand, then your left hand, then your right hand again.
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Clap: Clap your hands once.
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Lift and Place: Pick up the cup and place it back down on the table.
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Clap: Clap your hands once.
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Pick Up and Tap: Scoop the cup up with your left hand, turning your hand over. Simultaneously, tap the top of the cup with your right hand.
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Tap the Edge: Hit the bottom edge of the cup against the table.
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Switch Hands: Quickly transfer the cup from your left hand to your right hand.
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Tap the Table: Tap the table with your now-free left hand.
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Place the Cup Down: Place the cup back down on the table with your right hand.
Practice Makes Perfect
Repeat this sequence until you feel comfortable with the rhythm and hand movements. The key is to practice slowly at first, gradually increasing speed as you gain proficiency. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away – it takes time and repetition to coordinate the movements smoothly.
Adding the Lyrics
Once you have the rhythm down, you can incorporate the lyrics to the song “You’re Gonna Miss Me” by Lulu and the Lampshades. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, making them easy to learn along with the cup routine.
Here’s the first verse:
I got my ticket for the long way run
Two bottles of Pepsi for the way
And I sure would like some sweet company
And I’m leaving tomorrow, whatd’ya say?
When I’m gone
When I’m gone
You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone
You’re gonna miss me by my hair
You’re gonna miss me everywhere, oh
You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone
The Cup Song’s History
The Cup Song gained widespread recognition after being featured in the 2012 movie “Pitch Perfect,” where it was performed by Anna Kendrick. The song itself, however, originated with Lulu and the Lampshades’ rendition of the traditional folk song. Their version, uploaded to YouTube, sparked the cup routine trend.
From Beginner to Pro
Learning the Cup Song is a fun and rewarding experience. By following these step-by-step instructions and practicing consistently, you’ll be able to impress your friends and family with your newfound skills. Remember to start slow, focus on coordination, and enjoy the process!
