The Kingsmen – Louie Louie – 1963

About The Song

“Louie Louie” by The Kingsmen is a rock and roll classic released in 1963. The song gained notoriety for its raw energy, simple yet infectious melody, and the indecipherable lyrics that sparked an FBI investigation. Despite the controversy, “Louie Louie” became an anthem of the 1960s and has been covered by numerous artists.

5 Facts about “Louie Louie” (1963):

1. Controversial Lyrics: The lyrics of “Louie Louie” sparked controversy due to their perceived indecipherability and rumors of obscenity. The FBI conducted an investigation into the lyrics to determine if they were obscene, but no charges were filed. The ambiguity of the vocals added to the mystique of the song.
2. One-Take Recording: The Kingsmen recorded “Louie Louie” in one take at a makeshift studio in Portland, Oregon. The band was aiming for a raw and energetic sound, and the spontaneous recording contributed to the song’s distinctive feel. The entire recording session reportedly cost $50.
3. Chart Success: “Louie Louie” reached its peak at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1963. While it narrowly missed the top spot, the song’s popularity endured, and it became a cultural phenomenon, influencing other musicians and becoming a staple of rock and roll playlists.
4. Covers and Influence: “Louie Louie” has been covered by countless artists across various genres. Its influence extends to punk, garage rock, and beyond. The song’s simple three-chord structure and catchy melody have made it a popular choice for bands looking to capture the essence of early rock and roll.
5. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Recognition: Despite being The Kingsmen’s only major hit, “Louie Louie” secured the band’s place in rock and roll history. The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing its cultural and historical significance in the development of rock music. The Kingsmen’s version remains the most well-known and celebrated rendition of “Louie Louie.”

Video

Lyrics

Louie, Louie, oh no, I said we gotta go
Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah I said
Louie, Louie, oh baby, I said we gotta go

A fine little girl, she waits for me
Me catch a ship across the sea
Me sail that ship all alone
Me never think how I’ll make it home

Louie, Louie, no, no, no, no, no, I said we gotta go
Oh no, I said
Louie, Louie, oh baby, I said we gotta go

Three nights and days I sail the sea
I think of girl constantly
On that ship, I dream she there
I smell the rose in her hair

Louie, Louie, oh no, I said we gotta go
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah I said
Louie, Louie, oh baby, I said we gotta go

Okay, let’s give it to ’em, right now!

Me see
Me see Jamaican moon above
It won’t be long me see me love
Me take her in my arms and then
I tell her I’ll never leave again

Louie, Louie, oh no, I said we gotta go
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah I said
Louie, Louie, oh baby, I said we gotta go

I said we gotta go now

Let’s get on outta here

Let’s go!