Skip to main content

John Lee Hooker – Boom Boom – 1962

About The Song

“Boom Boom” is a classic blues song recorded by John Lee Hooker in 1961 and released in 1962. It has become one of his most well-known and enduring tracks, showcasing his distinctive boogie rhythm and soulful vocals. Here are five facts about the song:

  1. Release Year and Album: “Boom Boom” was released in 1962 as a single and later included on John Lee Hooker’s album “Burnin'” in 1962.
  2. Boogie Blues Style: The song is a prime example of Hooker’s boogie blues style, characterized by its infectious rhythm, repetitive guitar riff, and raw, emotive vocals. This style greatly influenced later rock musicians.
  3. Lyrics and Theme: The lyrics of “Boom Boom” feature a simple yet powerful narrative, expressing desire and the excitement of love. The repetitive refrain of “Boom, boom, boom, boom” adds to the song’s catchy and memorable nature.
  4. Cultural Impact: Over the years, “Boom Boom” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of John Lee Hooker’s blues.
  5. Recognition and Awards: While “Boom Boom” may not have received major awards upon its release, it has since been recognized as one of the greatest blues songs of all time. John Lee Hooker himself received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the blues genre.

Video

Lyrics

Layin’ down one night
What’d Papa tell Mama
What’d Papa tell Mama
Little boy boogie
Hey, hey
Hey, hey
You gotta come on

I felt so good
Wanna do the same
Boom, boom, boom, boom
Gonna shoot you right down
Offa your feet

Boom, boom, boom, boom
Bang, bang, bang, bang
Boom, boom, boom, boom
Bang, bang, bang, bang

I love the way you walk
And I love the way you talk
When you walk that walk
And you talk that talk

You knocked me out
Out of my feet
Boom, boom, boom, boom
Bang, bang, bang, bang
Boom, boom, boom, boom
Bang, bang, bang, bang
How, how, how, how
How, how, how, how

Boom, boom, boom, boom
Bang, bang, bang, bang
Boom, boom, boom, boom
Bang, bang, bang, bang

I love the way you walk
I love the way you talk
When you walk that walk
And you talk that talk

You knocked me out
Out of my feet
Boom, boom, boom, boom
Bang, bang, bang, bang
Boom, boom, boom, boom
Gonna shoot you right down
Offa your feet
How, how, how, how
Hey, hey