International Louie Louie Day

International Louie Louie Day is an international holiday dedicated to the singer Richard Berry and his iconic song “Louie Louie.” This track became a symbol of its era, and it’s hard to find someone who was of conscious age in the late 1950s and hasn’t heard it! The holiday is celebrated annually on April 11.

History

Richard Berry completed “Louie Louie” in 1955, and three years later, it was released with the help of the American musical group The Pharaohs. The song’s broadcasts began in San Francisco and were met with resounding success. As its popularity grew, it spread across America. Many garage bands recorded cover versions, hoping to capture a bit of that success and attract new listeners.

In 1963, The Kingsmen made their own recording of this song. Most people associate “Louie Louie” with them, often forgetting that the song’s success was made possible thanks to its creator, Richard Berry.

Despite its success, most radio stations banned the track because the band leader, Jack Ely, sang the lyrics in a way that many listeners found indecipherable, leading some to suspect obscenities in the song. The FBI even investigated the lyrics. Nonetheless, The Kingsmen’s version became a classic of that era, firmly establishing itself in music history.

Interesting facts

• The track held the #2 spot on the Billboard chart for 16 weeks!
• Rolling Stone Magazine included the song in its list of “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”

How to celebrate

Learn more about The Kingsmen and Richard Berry, the songwriter. Listen to “Louie Louie” in different versions by various artists. You might be surprised at how many there are!

Share information about the holiday on social media. Ask others if they enjoy this legendary song created by Richard Berry.

When is International Louie Louie Day in 2025?

International Louie Louie Day is observed on April 11 each year.

Observations