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 classic rock song that has left its mark on pop culture. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
B.J. Thomas Original: "Hooked on a Feeling" was originally written by Mark James and first recorded by B.J. Thomas in 1968. However, Blue Swede's version is the one that became most famous.
Blue Swede's Cover: Blue Swede, a Swedish rock band, recorded their version of "Hooked on a Feeling" in 1973. Their version features a distinctive "ooga-chaka" chant that became a memorable part of the song. It was produced by Bengt Palmers.
Billboard Success: Blue Swede's rendition of the song was a massive hit in the United States. It reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1974 and held the position for a week.
Soundtrack Appearances: The song has appeared in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials over the years. One of its most iconic uses was in the 2014 Marvel film "Guardians of the Galaxy." The "ooga-chaka" chant became associated with the character Star-Lord and played a significant role in the movie's soundtrack.
Reintroduction to Pop Culture: The success of "Hooked on a Feeling" in "Guardians of the Galaxy" sparked a renewed interest in the song, introducing it to a new generation of music listeners. This demonstrates the enduring power of classic rock hits.
Global Chart Performance: Blue Swede's version of "Hooked on a Feeling" also charted well in other countries, including Canada and Australia.
The "Ooga-Chaka" Chant: The catchy "ooga-chaka" chant in the song was inspired by Jonathan King's 1971 version of the song. It wasn't part of the original composition but became a defining element of Blue Swede's rendition.
Album Release: "Hooked on a Feeling" was featured on Blue Swede's self-titled album, released in 1973. The album also included other tracks, but none achieved the same level of success as their cover of "Hooked on a Feeling."
Later Covers: In addition to Blue Swede and B.J. Thomas, "Hooked on a Feeling" has been covered by various artists over the years, showcasing its enduring popularity.
Blue Swede's Legacy: Despite being considered a one-hit wonder in the United States, Blue Swede's "Hooked on a Feeling" remains an iconic and beloved song that continues to be celebrated for its unique sound and memorable "ooga-chaka" chant.