We’re all adults here, right? Right! Except we really don’t have to be! The theme for today’s Song Lyric Sunday is rules. I’m approaching the theme from a little different angle. This particular song, “Louie Louie” by The Kingsmen seemed to break all the rules for its time in history. Written by Richard Berry in 1957, it was song by a young man as a rock n roll song. He had brand new braces on his teeth and the lyrics weren’t at all clear. The public was scandalized. A FBI investigation ensued. The song tops the charts as the number one censored song of all time so yes, it broke all the rules. It was the “bad boy” song of more than one generation.
By the way, the REAL lyrics are below.
Lyrics to Louie, Louie by Richard Berry
The Kingsmen
Louie Louie, oh baby, me gotta go.
Louie Louie, oh baby, me gotta go.
A fine little girl, she waits for me.
Me catch the ship across the sea.
I sailed the ship all alone.
I never think I’ll make it home.
Louie Louie, me gotta go.
Three nights and days we sailed the sea.
Me think of girl constantly.
On the ship, I dream she there.
I smell the rose in her hair.
Louie Louie, me gotta go.
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 never leave again.
Louie Louie, oh baby, I said we gotta go
The Write Scribe 
I remember this song from so long ago, but never knew it was controversial, let alone banned. I wonder what song was last investigated by the FBI! Nice one.
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Love this song, but like the commenter above I had no idea about the controversy or the FBI investigation surrounding it. Whatever the case, a timeless classic for sure.
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I was also shocked that this one was banned. I’m always amazed at how straight-laced things were back in the ’50s. I’m thinking this song is pretty timeless, though. I could totally see something like this being released today. Great choice!
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Definitely a classic! Great choice. 🙂
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