The Trashmen Ride the Wave with “Surfin’ Bird”

“Surfin’ Bird” is a song by the American garage rock band The Trashmen, released in 1963. The song is a combination of two R&B hits by the Rivingtons: “The Bird’s the Word” and “Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow.”

“Surfin’ Bird” is known for its infectious and energetic sound, featuring catchy guitar riffs, wild vocals, and a driving beat. The lyrics are playful and nonsensical, with repetitive phrases like “the bird is the word” and “papa-ooma-mow-mow,” contributing to the song’s quirky charm.

Upon its release, “Surfin’ Bird” became a major hit for The Trashmen, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s popularity was further boosted by its inclusion in various movies, TV shows, and commercials, making it a cultural phenomenon.

“Surfin’ Bird” has since become a cult classic and is considered one of the iconic songs of the 1960s garage rock era. Its catchy melody and humorous lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of vintage rock and roll.