Ridiculous History CLASSIC: The FBI's Quest to Understand "Louie, Louie"
Feb 18, 2025
Christopher Hassiotis, a music journalist and researcher, joins the discussion about the infamous song 'Louie, Louie.' The talk dives into the absurd two-year FBI investigation sparked by the Kingsmen's unintelligible cover. They explore the song's cultural origins, the ridiculous scrutiny it faced, and its unexpected role in pop culture. Hassiotis highlights various covers, showing how this simple tune evolved through different genres. The conversation combines humor with a deep look at the song's legacy and its impact on music history.
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FBI Investigation
- The FBI investigated the Kingsmen's "Louie Louie" for obscenity for two years.
- They received a letter complaining about the lyrics from someone at Sarasota High School.
Recording Session
- The Kingsmen recorded "Louie Louie" in a Portland studio for $50.
- The unusual setup involved a microphone suspended from the 15-foot ceiling.
Dominique's Success and Tragedy
- The Singing Nun's "Dominique" topped the charts, beating "Louie Louie".
- Deckers, known as The Singing Nun, later entered a suicide pact with her partner.