Introduction:
“Lollipop” by The Chordettes, a delightful and enduring pop classic, was originally released as a single in February 1958. While it wasn’t part of a specific studio album upon its initial release, it has since been included on numerous compilation albums, such as The Chordettes’ Best (1957) and later retrospectives like Sandmen & Lollipops: Greatest Hits 1954-1961. The song firmly belongs to the pop genre, with strong influences of doo-wop and vocal group harmonies that were highly popular during the late 1950s.
“Lollipop” proved to be a massive commercial success for The Chordettes, solidifying their reputation as one of the era’s leading female vocal groups. The catchy tune and playful lyrics resonated widely, leading it to achieve significant chart performance. It soared to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and also reached number 3 on the Billboard R&B Best Sellers in Stores chart. Internationally, its popularity was equally strong, reaching number 6 on the UK Singles Chart and even hitting number 1 in Canada.
Beyond its impressive chart figures, “Lollipop” is also recognized for its distinctive sound. The song features prominent handclaps and a unique “popping” sound, created by one of the Chordettes placing her finger in her mouth and flicking it out – an innovative and memorable touch that added to its charm. This playful element, combined with the group’s signature close harmonies, made “Lollipop” an instant classic and a staple of the era’s sound. Its enduring appeal is evident in its frequent use in popular culture, from films and television shows to commercials, cementing its status as an iconic piece of 1950s pop music history.