Who's behind the notes? Discover Blue Swede: The Swedish Sensation Behind 'Hooked on a Feeling'
"Hooked on a Feeling" by Blue Swede is a catchy and iconic song that has left a lasting impact on popular culture. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
Original Recording: "Hooked on a Feeling" was originally written by Mark James and was first recorded by B.J. Thomas in 1968. Blue Swede's version, however, is the most well-known and successful rendition.
Blue Swede's Version: Blue Swede, a Swedish rock band, released their version of "Hooked on a Feeling" in 1974. Their rendition featured a distinctive "ooga-chaka" chant at the beginning, which became one of the most recognizable parts of the song.
Ooga-Chaka Chant: The "ooga-chaka" chant that opens the song was actually inspired by a 1971 cover of the song by British musician Jonathan King. Blue Swede's producer, Bengt Palmers, liked the chant and decided to incorporate it into their version, making it one of the most iconic elements of the song.
Billboard Success: Blue Swede's version of "Hooked on a Feeling" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States in 1974, making it their biggest hit.
Guardians of the Galaxy: The song experienced a resurgence in popularity after it was featured in the 2014 Marvel movie "Guardians of the Galaxy." The song was used in the film's soundtrack and played a significant role in the movie's memorable opening scene.
Cultural Impact: "Hooked on a Feeling" has been used in numerous commercials, TV shows, and movies over the years, further solidifying its place in pop culture.
Chart Performance: Blue Swede's version of the song sold over a million copies and was certified Gold by the RIAA.
Legacy: While "Hooked on a Feeling" remains Blue Swede's most famous song, the band had other charting singles in the 1970s, including "Silly Milly" and "Never My Love." However, they are primarily remembered for their iconic rendition of this classic tune.
Genre Blend: Blue Swede's version of "Hooked on a Feeling" blended rock, pop, and a touch of glam rock, which was characteristic of their musical style at the time.
Cover Versions: Many artists have covered "Hooked on a Feeling" over the years, showcasing its enduring popularity and appeal.
"Hooked on a Feeling" by Blue Swede remains a timeless classic and a song that continues to captivate audiences with its unique sound and catchy chorus.