"Hey Little Cobra" is a song released in 1963 by the Rip Chords about the Shelby Cobra. The song was produced by Terry Melcher and Bruce Johnston, who also sang vocals.Bronson, Fred (2003). The Billboard Book of Number One Hits, Billboard Books. p. 46. Retrieved October 14, 2016.
The song spent 14 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at No. 4,The Rip Chords – Chart History – The Hot 100, Billboard.com. Retrieved October 13, 2016. while reaching No. 5 on Canada's CHUM Hit Parade Chart No. 359, January 27, 1964. CHUM. and No. 3 on New Zealand's "Lever Hit Parade"."Lever Hit Parade" 23-Apr-1964, Flavour of New Zealand. Retrieved October 13, 2016.
Reception Cash Box gave "Hey Little Cobra" a positive review, describing it as a "dandy thump'er that moves along at a quick, "Surf City" clip." In a retrospective review, William Ruhlmann of AllMusic also noted the song as "reminiscent of "Surf City."" and described it as "a pleasant artifact of its era".
Personnel Terry Melcher – lead vocals, harmony and backing vocals, producer Bruce Johnston – harmony and backing vocals, producer According to the AFM contract, the following musicians played on the track.
Steve Douglas – saxophone Glen Campbell Ray Pohlman – bass Leon Russell – keyboards Frank Capp Hal Blaine – drums Bill Pitman Tommy Tedesco – guitar
Chart performance Chart (1963-64)PeakpositionCanada (CHUM Chart)5New Zealand (Lever Hit Parade)3US Billboard Hot 1004US Cash Box Top 1004
References