Boom Boom

The recording

Recorded on October 26, 1961 at Universal Recording Studios in Chicago, the track features Hooker’s guitar atop a tight Motown rhythm section (bass: James Jamerson, drums: Benny Benjamin). He plays a low‑register boogie riff on a semi‑hollow body guitar while his foot‑stomp adds a percussive pulse, and a modestly overdriven tube amp provides the gritty edge that cuts through the ensemble.

Reported gear

1960s Gibson ES-335

Guitar

Hooker used a semi‑hollow Gibson ES‑335, delivering a warm, slightly overdriven tone that cuts through the Motown rhythm section.

1960s Fender Vibro Champ

Amp

He ran the guitar into a small Fender amp, likely a Vibro Champ, providing modest tube breakup that adds bite to the boogie riff.

Alternatives

Epiphone ES-335

Modern equivalent · for the 1960s Gibson ES-335

$500 to $700

Fender '57 Custom Champ Reissue

Reissue · for the 1960s Fender Vibro Champ

$500 to $800

Practical playing approach

Recreation guidance, not a claim about undocumented studio control positions.

1. 1.Play a single‑note boogie riff on the low strings, keeping the pattern tight and repetitive.
2. 2.Use your foot to stomp on the floor for a percussive pulse, syncing with the band’s groove.
3. 3.Select the neck pickup (or a humbucker) for a warm, round tone.
4. 4.Keep the amp’s gain low, letting the tube’s natural breakup add subtle grit.
5. 5.Maintain steady dynamics; let the rhythm section drive the song while the guitar stays in the background.