About the song
“Hooked on a Feeling” is a pop classic that first gained attention in 1968, written by Mark James and initially recorded by B.J. Thomas. This song, with its distinct electric sitar sound played by Reggie Young, quickly captured listeners’ hearts and reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1969. Thomas’s version is remembered for its catchy melody and joyful lyrics about the exhilarating feelings of being in love.
The song’s journey didn’t end with Thomas’s version. In 1974, Swedish band Blue Swede gave the song a memorable twist by adding the now-iconic “ooga chaka” chant. Their version reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the biggest hits of that year. The Blue Swede version also altered some lyrics to avoid a drug reference, broadening its appeal.
“Hooked on a Feeling” has enjoyed a remarkable presence in popular culture. It was featured prominently in Quentin Tarantino’s 1992 film *Reservoir Dogs* and was later immortalized in a memorable scene from the 1998 TV show *Ally McBeal*, where a dancing baby to the Blue Swede version became a viral internet sensation. The song’s resurgence continued with its inclusion in the 2014 film *Guardians of the Galaxy*, which led to a spike in sales and reintroduced the song to a new generation.
Throughout its history, “Hooked on a Feeling” has been covered by various artists, from reggae interpretations by Twinkle Brothers to versions by David Hasselhoff and even a recent cover by The Hives. Each rendition brings a unique flavor to the song, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal.
Today, “Hooked on a Feeling” remains a beloved tune, celebrated for its infectious charm and its ability to bring joy to listeners of all ages.
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Lyrics
I can’t stop this feeling deep inside of me
Girl, you just don’t realize what you do to me
When you hold me in your arms so tight
You let me know every thing’s all right, aha hah
I, I’m hooked on a feeling
I’m high on believing
That you’re in love with me
Lips as sweet as candy
The taste stays on my mind
Girl, you keep me thirsty
For another cup of wine
I got it bad for you girl but I don’t need a cure
I’ll just stay addicted if I can endure
All the good love when we’re all alone
Keep it up girl, yeah, you turn me on
I, I’m hooked on a feeling
I’m high on believing
That you’re in love with me
All the good love when we’re all alone
Keep it up girl, yeah, you turn me on
Ah aha, I’m hooked on a feeling
I’m high on believing
That you’re in love with me