Introduction:
“Come and Get It,” a quintessential power pop gem, was released by the British band Badfinger as a single in the UK on December 5, 1969, and in the US on January 12, 1970. This upbeat and catchy track was primarily written and produced by Paul McCartney of The Beatles, who specifically intended it for the 1969 film The Magic Christian, starring Peter Sellers and Ringo Starr. As such, it served as the opening theme for the movie. The song later appeared on Badfinger’s second album, which was retitled Magic Christian Music in 1970 to capitalize on the film’s release and the single’s success. The genre of “Come and Get It” is firmly power pop, a style characterized by strong melodies, clean vocal harmonies, and a catchy, guitar-driven sound, often blending the directness of pop with the energy of rock.
“Come and Get It” proved to be an instant breakthrough for Badfinger, who were then known as The Iveys before their name change at the suggestion of Apple Records. The song was a significant international hit, marking their first major chart success and establishing them as a prominent act on the Apple Records label. It achieved considerable commercial success, reaching number 4 on the UK Singles Chart and number 7 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Its infectious hooks and polished production, courtesy of McCartney, garnered widespread airplay and critical acclaim. The song’s success not only launched Badfinger’s career but also showcased their knack for crafting melodic, well-crafted pop-rock, laying the groundwork for their subsequent hits like “No Matter What” and “Day After Day.” Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its role in defining the sound of early 1970s power pop.