The Chordettes’ “Lollipop”: A Timeless Classic That Will Make You Smile

About The Song

Chordettes – Lollipop: A Song Analysis

Background

“Lollipop” was released in 1958 by The Chordettes, a four-woman vocal group from the United States. The song quickly became a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping the charts in Canada and the United Kingdom. The Chordettes, originally known as The Melody Makers, had been performing together since the early 1950s. They were known for their tight harmonies and wholesome, all-American image.

“Lollipop” was written by Julius Dixson and Beverly Feldman. Dixson, a songwriter and record producer, had a history of writing novelty songs. Feldman, a music publisher, is credited with coming up with the song’s title and central theme. The song was originally intended for another group, The Cadencemen, but it was ultimately rejected. The Chordettes’ manager heard the demo and convinced the group to record it.

Musical Style

“Lollipop” is a doo-wop song, a genre of vocal pop music that emerged in the African American communities of the United States in the 1940s and 1950s. Doo-wop groups typically consisted of four or five singers, who used close harmonies and often incorporated nonsense syllables (“doo-wop,” “shoo-bop”) into their songs. “Lollipop” exemplifies the doo-wop style with its prominent use of four-part harmonies and its playful, nonsensical lyrics.

The song is a mid-tempo tune with a simple yet catchy melody. The instrumentation is light and airy, featuring acoustic guitar, bass, and drums. The Chordettes’ vocals are the focal point of the song, with their sweet and innocent voices perfectly capturing the song’s lighthearted mood.

Lyrics

The lyrics of “Lollipop” are simple and playful, describing a young girl’s fascination with a lollipop. The song opens with the iconic line, “Lollipop, lollipop, lick the lollypop,” which is repeated throughout the song in a sing-along fashion. The verses describe the girl’s sensory experience of the lollipop, from its sweetness and color to the way it sticks to her tongue. The lyrics are full of childish wonder and innocence, perfectly capturing the carefree spirit of youth.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the lyrics:

• Verse 1: Introduces the lollipop and describes its sweetness (“lick the lollypop, it’s made of candy”).
• Verse 2: Focuses on the lollipop’s color (“red and yellow and green”).
• Verse 3: Describes the lollipop sticking to the tongue (“goes round and round”).
• Bridge: Briefly mentions other candy options (“got a stick of gum, got a coca-cola”).
• Chorus: Reemphasizes the lollipop’s appeal (“Lollipop, lollipop, lick the lollypop”).

The use of repetition throughout the song makes it catchy and memorable, especially for young listeners. The lyrics are devoid of any deeper meaning, staying true to the lighthearted and playful nature of doo-wop music.

Cultural Impact

“Lollipop” was a cultural phenomenon in the late 1950s. The song’s catchy melody and innocent lyrics resonated with audiences of all ages. It became a staple on jukeboxes and radio stations, and it was featured in several films and television shows. The Chordettes became household names, and “Lollipop” solidified their place as one of the most popular vocal groups of the era.

The song’s cultural impact extends beyond its initial popularity. “Lollipop” has become a timeless classic, enjoyed by generations of listeners. It is often used in commercials and television shows to evoke a sense of nostalgia for the 1950s. The song’s simple lyrics and catchy melody make it a favorite among children, ensuring its continued relevance.

“Lollipop” also played a role in the development of doo-wop music. The song’s immense success helped to popularize the genre and pave the way for other doo-wop groups. It is considered one of the most iconic doo-wop songs of all time.

Conclusion

“Lollipop” by The Chordettes is more than just a catchy pop song. It is a cultural touchstone that captures the innocence and lightheartedness of the 1950s. The song’s simple lyrics, playful melody, and doo-wop harmonies have ensured its enduring popularity for over six decades. “Lollipop” remains a beloved classic, enjoyed by young and old alike, and its influence on popular music continues to be felt today.

Video

Lyrics

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