Booker T & The MG's - Green Onions / Chinese Checkers

Year Released: 1962
Label: Stax Records – S-177
Genre: Soul / Instrumental R&B / Funk

Description:
Booker T. & The MG’s “Green Onions” is one of the defining instrumentals of early 1960s soul. With its instantly recognizable Hammond organ riff, tight rhythm section, and understated guitar and bass interplay, the track blends blues and R&B into a groove that transcends eras. The B-side, “Chinese Checkers”, complements the A-side with a looser, swinging instrumental, showcasing the band’s tight ensemble work and improvisational skills.

“Green Onions” has been sampled, covered, and used extensively in film, TV, and advertising, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone. Original Stax 7″ pressings are highly prized by collectors due to their historical importance in soul and funk development.