Hear tale of ‘Louie, Louie’ at Everett library

Published 5:19 pm Tuesday, May 26, 2009

It’s hard to imagine the frat-house staple “Louie, Louie” igniting a national controversy.

But when the Kingsmen released a raucous and largely unintelligible take on the song in 1964, parents were outraged and the FBI launched an investigation into alleged obscenity.

Peter Blecha, a Seattle rock historian, will discuss that backstory during a visit to Everett. Blecha, author of the books “Sonic Boom” and “Taboo Tunes,” will also talk about Everett’s contribution to music history at the free presentation and book signing.

The event is from 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday, in the main auditorium of the Everett Public Library, 2702 Hoyt Ave.* Call 425-257-8000 or check www.epls.org for more information.

*Correction, May 26, 2009: This article originally listed an incorrect address.