Introduction:
“Hooked on a Feeling,” a catchy and enduring song by American singer B. J. Thomas, was originally released as a single on October 29, 1968. It was featured on his album On My Way, which was also released in 1968. The song primarily falls under the Pop genre, though it also incorporates elements of psychedelia and soul, reflecting the diverse musical landscape of the late 1960s. Its distinctive sound, particularly the prominent electric sitar played by Reggie Young, contributed to its unique appeal.
The song was an immediate success for B. J. Thomas, becoming his second million-selling record and a significant hit. “Hooked on a Feeling” climbed the charts, reaching number 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 3 on the Canadian RPM Top Singles chart. It also made an impact internationally, peaking at number 10 in New Zealand and number 35 in Australia. While the most famous version of “Hooked on a Feeling” for many is the 1974 cover by Blue Swede, which famously added the “ooga-chaka” intro (an element first introduced in a 1971 cover by Jonathan King), it was B. J. Thomas’s original recording that laid the groundwork and achieved significant chart success. His smooth vocal delivery and the song’s infectious melody ensured its place as a classic of the era, showcasing Thomas’s versatility and establishing him as a prominent figure in pop music. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its memorable tune and the universal theme of being deeply in love, making it a staple on oldies radio and a frequently covered track by other artists.