Who's behind the notes? Discover Blue Swede: The Swedish Sensation Behind 'Hooked on a Feeling'
"Hooked on a Feeling" is a popular song by the Swedish rock band Blue Swede, released in 1974. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
Björn Skifs: Blue Swede was fronted by Swedish singer Björn Skifs, who provided the distinctive vocals for "Hooked on a Feeling." Skifs' energetic and somewhat falsetto delivery of the "ooga-chaka" chant in the song's chorus became iconic.
Cover Version: "Hooked on a Feeling" is actually a cover of a song written by Mark James. The original version was recorded by B.J. Thomas in 1968 and had a more country sound.
Ooga-Chaka Chant: The catchy "ooga-chaka" chant in the song's chorus was not part of the original composition. Blue Swede added this unique element, and it became a signature feature of their version.
Soundtrack Fame: The song gained renewed popularity when it was featured in the soundtrack of the Marvel movie "Guardians of the Galaxy" in 2014. Its inclusion in the film's soundtrack helped introduce the song to a new generation of listeners.
Chart Success: Blue Swede's version of "Hooked on a Feeling" reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States in 1974 and remained there for one week. It was their most successful single in the U.S.
Gold Record: The single was certified Gold by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) for selling over one million copies in the United States.
Other Chart Performances: The song also charted in several other countries, including Canada, where it reached #1 on the RPM Top Singles chart, and in Australia, where it reached #2 on the Kent Music Report chart.
Album Title: Blue Swede's album featuring "Hooked on a Feeling" was titled "Hooked on a Feeling." It was released in 1974.
Pop Culture References: The song has been referenced and parodied in various forms of media over the years, thanks to its distinctive "ooga-chaka" chant.
Legacy: "Hooked on a Feeling" is considered one of the quintessential pop songs of the 1970s. Its infectious melody and memorable chorus continue to make it a beloved classic, with enduring appeal.
The success of "Hooked on a Feeling" helped Blue Swede achieve international recognition, and the song remains a timeless classic in the world of pop music.