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Everybody Loves to Cha Cha Cha

1959 single by Sam Cooke From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Everybody Loves to Cha Cha Cha
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"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's Hot R&B Sides chart, peaking at number two; the song also charted at number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Quick facts Single by Sam Cooke, B-side ...

The song references the cha-cha-cha, a dance of Cuban origin that became popular in the United States in the late 1950s.

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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.[1] 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.[1]

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.[2]

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Personnel

Credits adapted from the liner notes to the 2003 compilation Portrait of a Legend: 1951–1964.[1]

  • Sam Cooke – vocals
  • Adolphus Asbrook – bass guitar
  • Charles Blackwell – drums
  • Jack Costanza – bongos
  • Rene Hall – guitar
  • Mike Pacheco – congas
  • Clifton White – guitar
  • Backing vocals are provided by Darlene Love and The Blossoms[3]

Charts and certifications

Weekly charts

More information Chart (1959), Peak position ...

References

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