Flashback Friday: Lou Bega ‘Mambo No. 5′

Go ahead and get your best your tappers out (shoes) for a little Mambo, number 5! Lou Bega steps into the spotlight for this B101.7 Flashback Friday!

The song is actually a cover of a 1940s tune by Cuban Dámaso Pérez Prado. Which explains the horn section sampling in Bega's version, along with the general salsa type sound that's present. Add in the care-free lyrics and you have the making for a good summertime song.

Speaking of those lyrics, let's talk about the long list of girl names in the chorus. Yes, talking about you, Monica, Erica, Rita, Tina, Sandra, Mary, and Jessica. C'mon admit ladies, don't you think it's pretty cool to have your name in a song? Not just a mention, but in a way to say that you're a hottie! I know if a lady singer had a line about loving some Greg, I'd be all about it. I'd probably announce something like, "that's right" to the radio, while it was playing. Who wouldn't?

The history of Lou Bega's "Mambo No. 5" has the song as international smash hit! It quickly went up charts around the planet in 1999. Here in the states, it peaked out in November of that year as it reached #3 on the Billboard chart. But, that was it. Lou Bega is added to the list of one-hit wonders!

Let's welcome the hot weekend with a little salsa! Check out the video below. Feel free to comment below on the song or to send a suggestion for a future spotlight.

Lou Bega "Mambo No. 5"

Listen for the B101.7 Flashback Friday Spotlight every Friday after 5pm with Greg Thomas. Every weekend, join Louie Linguini for the Saturday Night Party loaded with your favorite flashback party songs!