Guide Note: "Louie Louie" is one of the most performed songs in music history yet most people don't know the actual lyrics.

Richard Berry originally wrote "Louie, Louie" in 1957. The song tells the tale of a sailor who is on his way back to an island to see his girl.

Fast Facts

1. Genre: Reggae, Garage Rock
2. Writer: Richard Berry
3. Berry drew on Chuck Berry's "Havana Moon" for inspiration
4. Originally Released: April 1957
5. Best known recording is by The Kingsmen
6. The Kingsmen released their version April 6, 1963
7. The Kingsmen recorded their version in one take
8. Chart Position: #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for December 7
9. Song was investigated by the FBI for possible obscene lyrics

Louie Louie Guitar Riff

A major, D major, and E minor A-A-A, D-D, Em-Em-Em, D-D (repeat)

The Kingsmen Facts

1. Genres: Rock, Garage Rock
2. Years Active: 1959-present
3. Origin: Portland, Oregon
4. Labels: Wand Records, Sundazed Records, Rhino Records
5. Recorded their first single "Louie Louie" for the cost of $36
6. Had as many as 20 different band members over the years

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