The song “(Who Wrote) The Book of Love” is a timeless classic that has charmed listeners for generations. If you’ve ever found yourself humming its catchy tune and wondering Who Sang The Song Who Wrote The Book Of Love, you’re in for a delightful journey into the world of doo-wop and the story behind this iconic hit. This article delves into the origins of this beloved song, exploring the talented group behind it, The Monotones, and the fascinating tale of how “Book of Love” came to be.
Meet The Monotones: The Voices Behind ‘Book of Love’
“Book of Love” was brought to life by The Monotones, a doo-wop group formed in 1955 in Newark, New Jersey. This talented ensemble consisted of seven members from the Baxter Terrace housing development: Warren Davis, George Malone, Frank Smith, John and Warren Ryanes, and brothers Charles and James Patrick. While James Patrick departed before their major success, the core group, often singing in harmonious unison rather than monotone, honed their skills in the New Hope Baptist Choir. Notably, this choir also nurtured the early talents of Cissy Houston and the Warwick sisters, Dionne and Dee Dee, who were related to the Patrick brothers, highlighting a rich musical heritage within their community.
From Pepsodent to Pop Charts: The Accidental Inspiration of ‘Book of Love’
The story of how “Book of Love” was written is as intriguing as the song itself. According to Monotone Charles Patrick, the inspiration struck while he was browsing sheet music for another song titled “Book Of Love.” Serendipitously, the catchy jingle for Pepsodent toothpaste, “You’ll wonder where the yellow went when you brush your teeth with Pepsodent,” played on the radio. This jingle sparked an idea: Patrick cleverly combined the title “Book Of Love” with the melody of the Pepsodent jingle, transforming “You’ll wonder where the yellow went” into the now-iconic opening, “I wonder, wonder who.” He then collaborated with his fellow Monotones to complete the lyrics, creating a simple yet charming guide to love, divided into catchy “chapters.” Whether apocryphal or not, this origin story adds to the song’s whimsical charm.
Adding another layer to the song’s lore is the tale of the distinctive drum beat. Legend has it that during the recording session, a fortuitous accident occurred when a ball thrown by a child outside the studio struck a window precisely as the band finished the first line. The unexpected sound resonated with the group, and they decided to incorporate a drum hit at that exact spot, creating a memorable rhythmic element. Like the Pepsodent inspiration, the drum beat story may be embellished, but it underscores the organic and somewhat accidental nature of the song’s creation.
‘Book of Love’s’ Chart-Topping Success and Enduring Appeal
Released in 1958, “(Who Wrote) The Book of Love” quickly climbed the charts, becoming The Monotones’ biggest and most enduring hit. It reached No. 5 on the Billboard pop chart and No. 3 on the R&B chart, solidifying its place in music history. Despite the band’s subsequent releases not achieving the same level of success, “Book of Love” cemented their legacy in the doo-wop genre. Even after The Monotones disbanded in 1962, the song continued to live on through reunions and performances by various iterations of the group on the oldies circuit.
The song’s appeal extends far beyond its initial chart success. “Book of Love” has been featured in numerous films and television shows, further cementing its place in popular culture. Notably, it appeared in the classic movie American Graffiti, capturing the spirit of the era. Sha Na Na’s performance of the song at Woodstock introduced it to a new generation. It even became the theme song for a version of The Newlywed Game in the late 1980s and made an appearance in an episode of Who’s The Boss. Its inclusion in video games further demonstrates its timeless and cross-generational appeal.
Conclusion: The Enduring Chapters of ‘Book of Love’
“(Who Wrote) The Book of Love” by The Monotones is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a cultural touchstone that encapsulates the charm of doo-wop and the simple, enduring questions about love. The song’s whimsical origin story, combined with The Monotones’ harmonious performance, has contributed to its lasting appeal. So, the next time you hear “Book of Love,” you’ll know who sang the song who wrote the book of love – The Monotones, a group whose one major hit continues to bring joy and a touch of romantic whimsy to listeners worldwide.
