Louie Louie The Best Of The Kingsmen

"Louie Louie" never sounded better! Check out the high quality sound and packaging on this CD, which is packed with the 20 essential Kingsmen classics.

The booklet features highly detailed and extensive liner notes by respected author and archivist John Tracy, with rare photos, memorabilia and facts supplied by sources close to the group.

When did the modern rock era really start? Many believe it was all thanks to a certain hit record by one of America's pioneering and premiere 'garage' bands. Yes, it all kicked off with the raucous sound of 'Louie Louie' by The Kingsmen, a smash hit back in 1963. A combination of teenage angst and an insidious 'hook line' ensured the number would become a classic and inspiration to future generations of rockers.

The Kingsmen came from Portland, Oregon and were headed by singer Jack Ely and guitarist Mike Mitchell. "Louie Louie" was their debut single, written by Richard Berry and recorded by him way back in 1957. The Kingsmen's version got to Number 2 in the US chart and proved a Top 30 hit in the UK in 1964.

Although the group was the subject of internal dissent after their first big hit, they went on to enjoy more chart success with such songs as "Money" and "The Jolly Green Giant", both included on this 20 track compilation.

Here is the sound of American pop / rock at its most joyful.