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Everybody Loves to Cha Cha Cha
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Wikipedia article
"'Everybody Loves to Cha Cha Cha'" (originally released as "Everybody Likes to Cha Cha Cha") is a song by American singer-songwriter Sam Cooke, released in January 1959. The song was one of Cooke's biggest successes on 'Billboard' Hot R&B Sides chart, peaking at number two; the song also charted at number 31 on the 'Billboard' Hot 100.
The song references the cha-cha-cha, a dance of Cuban origin that became popular in the United States in the late 1950s.
Background
The song originated from a Christmas 1958 party at Lou Rawls' stepfather's house. During the celebration, all began doing the cha-cha-cha, including Cooke's daughter, Linda. When one of the kids called out, "Everybody, cha-cha-cha!", Cooke grabbed a sheet of paper and wrote down the lyrics while everyone else danced. The song was recorded the week after New Year's 1959.
The song concerns Cooke and his girlfriend going to a dance in which all are doing the cha-cha-cha, a dance which his significant other doesn't know how to do. Cooke teaches his guest but by the end of the evening, she is "doing [the cha-cha-cha]" better than he is.Guralnick, Peter (2005). 'Dream Boogie: The Triumph of Sam Cooke'. New York: Back Bay Books, p. 268-69. First edition, 2005.
Personnel
Credits adapted from the liner notes to the 2003 compilation 'Portrait of a Legend: 19511964'.
*Sam Cooke vocals
*Adolphus Asbrook bass guitar
*Charles Blackwell drums
*Jack Costanza bongos
*Rene Hall guitar
*Mike Pacheco congas
*Clifton White guitar
* The back-up vocals are provided by Darlene Love and The BlossomsGuralnick, Peter, Dream Boogie: The Triumph of Sam Cooke, Little, Brown and Company, New York, 2005 p. 269-270
Charts and certifications
Weekly charts
References
Category:1959 singles
Category:Sam Cooke songs
Category:Songs written by Sam Cooke
Category:1959 songs
Category:Keen Records singles
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