On this date May 3, 1968 the "Theme To Hawaii 5-0" was recorded at Western Recorders in Hollywood. The song was written by Morton Stevens, and produced by Dave Pell.
Although credited to The Ventures, (who recorded a version of it in 1969) the theme song was recorded by session players including John Guerin-drums, Ray Pohlman-bass, and Tommy Tedesco-lead guitar.
Tedesco recorded his part at a separate session in August of 1968. The story goes that producer Pell wanted Tommy to have a copy of the Lead sheet before the session. He kept refusing saying he could just read the part at the session, which he did...reportedly playing the guitar behind his head.....