<P> `` Louie Louie '' is an American rhythm and blues song written by Richard Berry in 1955 and best known for the 1963 hit version by The Kingsmen . It has become a standard in pop and rock , with hundreds of versions recorded by different artists . The song is based on the tune `` El Loco Cha Cha '' popularized by bandleader René Touzet and is an example of Latin influence on American popular music . `` Louie Louie '' tells , in simple verse -- chorus form , the first - person story of a Jamaican sailor returning to the island to see his lady love . </P>
<P> `` Louie Louie '' is an American rhythm and blues song written by Richard Berry in 1955 and best known for the 1963 hit version by The Kingsmen . It has become a standard in pop and rock , with hundreds of versions recorded by different artists . The song is based on the tune `` El Loco Cha Cha '' popularized by bandleader René Touzet and is an example of Latin influence on American popular music . `` Louie Louie '' tells , in simple verse -- chorus form , the first - person story of a Jamaican sailor returning to the island to see his lady love . </P>
who recorded the first important national garage-band hit louie louie
who recorded the first important national garage-band hit louie louie
The Kingsmen
The Kingsmen