The Hollywood Argyles

The Hollywood Argyles

The Hollywood Argyles were a short-lived, studio-assembled novelty act best known for their 1960 No. 1 hit “Alley-Oop.” Not a real touring band, they were created by producers Kim Fowley and Gary S. Paxton (of Skip & Flip fame) for Lute Records.

The core performer was Paxton, who handled most vocals and production; the name drew from Hollywood glamour and “argyle” patterns for quirky appeal. “Alley-Oop,” written by Dallas Frazier as a lighthearted rock ‘n’ roll take on a comic strip caveman character, featured playful lyrics, doo-wop backing, and sound effects.

Released in 1960, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 for one week, selling over a million copies amid the era’s novelty craze. Credited to the group but largely Paxton’s work (with contributions from Fowley and others), it sparked brief fame but no major follow-ups. Attempts at sequels or other singles fizzled, and the “group” dissolved quickly. Paxton went on to produce hits like “Monster Mash” (as Bobby “Boris” Pickett) and engineer for acts like The Association.

The Hollywood Argyles remain a quintessential example of early 1960s one-hit wonder novelty pop, capturing the fun, disposable spirit of pre-Beatles rock.