Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu Huey Piano Smith
If you are a fan of old school R&B and rock 'n' roll, chances are you have heard of the infectious tune "Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu" by Huey "Piano" Smith. The song was one that defined the sound of the 60s music scene and catapulted Smith to fame.
Who is Huey "Piano" Smith?
Huey "Piano" Smith was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1934. He was a pianist, singer, and songwriter and was known for his unique sound that blended R&B, rock 'n' roll, and boogie-woogie. Smith was also known for his flamboyant personality and his stage performances that involved a lot of energy and enthusiasm.
Smith started his music career in the 1950s, playing in local clubs and bars in New Orleans. He formed a band called Huey "Piano" Smith and the Clowns and started recording songs that were a mix of R&B, rock 'n' roll, and boogie-woogie. His biggest hit, "Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu," was released in 1957 and became an instant success.
The Making of "Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu"
"Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu" was co-written by Huey Smith and John Vincent. The song was inspired by a real-life event when Smith contracted pneumonia and had to cancel a performance. Vincent visited him and commented that he had the "boogie woogie flu." This inspired Smith to write the song, and the rest is history.
The song features Smith's signature piano playing and a catchy melody that is hard to resist. The lyrics are about the "boogie woogie flu" that is spreading around and making everyone dance. The song was an instant hit and reached the top of the R&B charts, where it stayed for several weeks.
Legacy of "Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu"
"Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu" has become a classic and has been covered by several artists, including Johnny Rivers, Jerry Lee Lewis, and John Lennon. The song's popularity also led to several other hits for Huey Smith and his band, including "High Blood Pressure," "Don't You Just Know It," and "Sea Cruise."
Smith's legacy continues to this day, and his music has influenced several generations of musicians. His unique blend of R&B, rock 'n' roll, and boogie-woogie has become a part of the American music landscape, and songs like "Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu" continue to be loved and appreciated by fans of all ages.
Conclusion
Huey "Piano" Smith and his band may not have achieved the same level of success as some of their contemporaries, but their music has stood the test of time. "Rockin Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu" is a song that will always be remembered for its infectious melody and catchy lyrics. Smith's unique sound continues to inspire musicians today, and his contribution to the American music scene will never be forgotten.
