Dave Burgess, ‘Tequila’ Songwriter and The Champs Leader, Dies at 90

Dave Burgess, the creative force behind the legendary instrumental “Tequila,” has died. He was 90 years old. The musician passed away on October 19, 2025, in Dover, Tennessee.His death marks the end of an era for early rock and roll. Burgess led The Champs when their iconic single became a surprise global phenomenon.

A Legacy Forged in a Single Word

The song “Tequila” was an instant and massive hit. It skyrocketed to number one on the Billboard pop chart in 1958. Its success was both immediate and enduring.According to the Associated Press, the track earned a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance in 1959. This made it one of the first instrumental rock songs to receive such high honor. The record’s simple, punchy saxophone line and the famous shouted title defined a generation’s sound.Burgess was a prolific writer beyond this one megahit. He penned over 700 songs throughout his long career. His work cemented his status as an architect of early rock and roll.

From B-Side to Cultural Touchstone

“Tequila” achieved a second life in popular culture decades later. It was featured prominently in the 1985 film “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.” The scene where Pee-wee Herman dances in a biker bar became iconic.This reintroduced the song to a new audience. It solidified its status as a timeless party anthem. The track’s journey from a simple B-side to a cultural staple is remarkable.Fans and fellow musicians have flooded social media with tributes. Many recalled the joy and energy the song brought to countless gatherings and events. Its simplicity was its greatest strength.

Olivia Dean Announces Monumental 2026 World Tour Spanning Arenas Globally

The unmistakable shout of “Tequila!” will continue to echo, a fitting tribute to Dave Burgess’s unforgettable contribution to music history.

Thought you’d like to know-

Who originally wrote the song “Tequila”?

The music for “Tequila” was written by saxophonist Chuck Rio. Dave Burgess was the bandleader of The Champs and a prolific songwriter who penned the A-side of the single.

Did “Tequila” win any major awards?

Yes, the song won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance in 1959. This was a significant achievement for an instrumental rock track at the time.

What movie famously featured the song “Tequila”?

The song was famously used in the 1985 comedy “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.” The scene involves Paul Reubens’ character dancing in a biker bar to the track.

How did “Tequila” initially become a hit?

It was originally the B-side to another Burgess composition. Radio disc jockeys flipped the record and began playing “Tequila,” leading to its explosive popularity.

What was Dave Burgess’s role in The Champs?

Dave Burgess was the leader and manager of The Champs. He was also a guitarist and a primary songwriter for the group during their peak years.