Washington State Senate Floor Resolution 37 (1985)

Senate Floor Resolution No. 1985-37
by Senators Williams, Rasmussen, Bender, Thompson, Owen,
Talmadge, McManus, Fleming, McDermott and Vognild

WHEREAS, There has recently been discussion suggesting a more contemporary theme song as the official song of the state of Washington; and

WHEREAS, Few of our citizens are aware that there is an official theme song; and

WHEREAS, Even fewer of our citizens know the words or could carry the tune; and

WHEREAS, Members of the "baby boom generation" have come of age and constitute a major population with increasing influence over economic decisions; and

WHEREAS, Many of our citizens exhibit their pride, energy, and creativity through the art of music; and

WHEREAS, "Rock and roll" musicians have provided some of our citizens the ability to express their pride, energy, and creativity through the art of dance; and

WHEREAS, It has been suggested that the song "Louie Louie" should be adopted as the state theme song; and

WHEREAS, Rockin' Robin Roberts, singer for the "Wailers," a Washington musical group, was the original vocalist for the song "Louie Louie";¹ and

WHEREAS, Lyrics have been written especially for our state by Richard Berry to the tune "Louie Louie";² and

WHEREAS, Some of our legislators, citizens, and even the Governor are not familiar with the song "Louie Louie";

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, By the members of the Senate, That before the end of the 49th legislative session, the proposed lyrics written to the tune "Louie Louie" be performed in the rotunda for the citizens of this state to enjoy; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the members of the Senate for the state of Washington hereby declare April 12, 1985, to be "Louie Louie Day"; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the secretary of the Senate transmit a copy of this resolution to Mr. Berry.

Adopted 15 March 1985

1. The resolution was incorrect in stating that Rockin' Robin Roberts was the original vocalist. Richard Berry, who wrote Louie Louie, recorded the song in 1957. Rockin' Robin Roberts and the Wailers recorded it in 1961.
2. The Washington state lyrics to Louie Louie are available here.