Deaths on April 5

Larry LaPrise, American songwriter (b. 1913)

The iconic children's song and dance, "Do The Hokey Pokey," holds a fascinating, albeit somewhat contested, history, deeply intertwined with the life of Roland Lawrence "Larry" LaPrise. Born on November 11, 1912, in the bustling city of Detroit, Michigan, LaPrise would eventually become a significant figure in the song's American popularization, at one point holding the U.S. copyright for this beloved tune that has animated countless parties and gatherings worldwide.

The Genesis in Sun Valley

LaPrise's creative spark for "Do The Hokey Pokey" ignited in the picturesque setting of Sun Valley, Idaho, during the early 1940s. This vibrant ski resort town was a popular destination, and its après-ski culture — the social activities and entertainment following a day on the slopes — was a particularly lively scene. It was within this festive environment, likely seeking to engage the tired yet enthusiastic skiers, that LaPrise penned the catchy lyrics and simple movements that would become synonymous with the "Hokey Pokey." The song was specifically designed to be an interactive, easy-to-learn dance, perfect for groups looking to unwind and have fun.

The Ram Trio and First Recording

In 1948, LaPrise, alongside his musical collaborators Charles Macak and Tafit Baker, formed a group initially known as the Ram Trio. It was under a slightly different moniker, the Sun Valley Trio, that they made the very first recording of "Do The Hokey Pokey." This recording marked a pivotal moment, bringing the song out of the confines of Sun Valley clubs and into a wider public consciousness. Their efforts were formally recognized in 1950 when they were awarded the U.S. copyright for the song, solidifying their claim to its American rendition.

A Web of Authorship Claims

Despite LaPrise's significant role and copyright, the true authorship of the "Hokey Pokey" has been a subject of considerable debate, a common occurrence with many widely adopted folk-like songs that evolve through oral tradition and various interpretations. This rich history points to a musical tapestry woven by multiple hands across different regions and times.

Early European Roots: Jimmy Kennedy's "Cokey-Coney"

One prominent claim comes from Irish songwriter Jimmy Kennedy, a prolific composer known for hits like "Teddy Bear's Picnic" and "My Prayer." Kennedy is credited with publishing "The Cokey-Coney" in 1942, a song remarkably similar in its structure and interactive dance instructions to what would later become the "Hokey Pokey." This earlier publication suggests a European precursor, indicating that the core concept of the dance might have been circulating well before LaPrise's version emerged in Sun Valley.

The "Hokey-Pokey Dance" Lawsuit

Adding another layer to the complex authorship narrative, Robert Degan initiated a lawsuit against LaPrise, alleging copyright infringement for his own 1946 composition, "The Hokey-Pokey Dance." This legal challenge highlighted the close proximity in time and similarity in title among different versions appearing in the mid-1940s, underscoring the popular appeal of such interactive dances during that era. Ultimately, the parties involved in the Degan lawsuit opted to settle the matter out of court, a common legal resolution that avoids a definitive ruling on primary authorship but often involves an agreement regarding rights and royalties.

Later Life and Enduring Legacy

After the Ram Trio disbanded in the mid-1960s, Larry LaPrise stepped away from the spotlight of the music industry. He found a new calling in public service, working diligently for the Post Office in Ketchum, Idaho, a quiet transition from the lively world of musical entertainment. LaPrise passed away at the age of 83 on April 4, 1996, in Gooding, Idaho. While his later years were spent in relative anonymity, his contribution to a song that has brought joy to generations remains indelible. The "Hokey Pokey" continues to be a staple at children's parties, weddings, and social gatherings globally, transcending its origins to become a universal symbol of simple, communal fun. The ongoing debates about its true origin only add to its mystique, underscoring its deep roots in folk tradition and its remarkable adaptability across cultures.

Frequently Asked Questions About "Do The Hokey Pokey"

Who officially wrote "Do The Hokey Pokey"?

In the United States, Larry LaPrise and his group (The Ram Trio/Sun Valley Trio, including Charles Macak and Tafit Baker) were awarded the U.S. copyright in 1950 for their recording and rendition of "Do The Hokey Pokey." However, the song's authorship is widely disputed, with earlier versions and similar concepts, such as Jimmy Kennedy's "The Cokey-Coney" from 1942 and Robert Degan's "The Hokey-Pokey Dance" from 1946, suggesting a complex, possibly folk-music-influenced evolution.

What does "Hokey Pokey" mean?

The exact origin of the phrase "Hokey Pokey" is somewhat obscure. It's often associated with a nonsensical or whimsical term, possibly evolving from older English slang like "hocus pocus" or a general term for a simple trick or game. In the context of the song, it serves as an inviting, lighthearted instruction to "do" the dance.

Where did the dance originate?

While Larry LaPrise created his popular American version for the après-ski crowd in Sun Valley, Idaho, in the early 1940s, and Jimmy Kennedy published a similar "Cokey-Coney" in Europe in 1942, the basic concept of a participatory dance involving putting body parts "in" and "out" has likely existed in various forms across different cultures for a long time. It's a classic example of a folk dance evolving with regional interpretations.

Is "Do The Hokey Pokey" popular internationally?

Absolutely! "Do The Hokey Pokey" has achieved global popularity. It's known by different names in various countries, such as "Hokey Cokey" in the UK and Ireland, "Hokey Pokey" in Australia and New Zealand, and even "Dem Bones" or similar variations elsewhere. Its simple, universal movements and catchy tune make it easily adaptable and enjoyable across many cultures and languages, often taught as a foundational children's dance.

When was the song first recorded?

Larry LaPrise's group, the Sun Valley Trio (originally the Ram Trio), made the first known recording of "Do The Hokey Pokey" in 1948.