The Champs

1950s American Rock and Roll Band

The Champs were an American rock and roll band most famous for their Latin-tinged instrumental "Tequila." The group formed in the late 1950s and was originally composed of studio musicians. "Tequila" was released as a single in 1958 and became a surprise hit, reaching number one on the Billboard chart. The success of this single led to the band's first album, "Go, Champs, Go!" which was released in the same year. The Champs' music often featured saxophone and guitar and was characterized by its lively, danceable sound. Although they never replicated the massive success of "Tequila," The Champs continued to record and perform, contributing to the early rock and roll scene with a series of singles and albums throughout their career. Their influence can be heard in the surf rock genre that followed, and "Tequila" remains a popular and recognizable tune to this day.