Who Wrote "I Want Candy"?
"I Want Candy" is a song that has been stuck in our heads for decades. The catchy tune, with its memorable chorus and lyrics, has become a staple of pop culture. But have you ever wondered who wrote this sugary sweet song? Let’s dive into the history of "I Want Candy" and uncover the mystery behind its creation.
The Song’s Origins
"I Want Candy" was written by Bert Berns, an American songwriter and producer, in 1965. Berns was a prolific songwriter, having written hits like "Twist and Shout" and "Here I Go Again". He was also the founder of Bang Records, a small independent label that signed up-and-coming artists.
The Song’s History
The song was originally recorded by the American pop-rock band The Strangeloves in 1965. The band, consisting of Dickie Goodman, Bobby Weinstein, and Steve Duboff, was known for their quirky blend of rock and roll, pop, and doo-wop. "I Want Candy" was their biggest hit, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The Song’s Impact
"I Want Candy" has had a lasting impact on popular music. The song’s catchy melody and lyrics have made it a staple of pop culture, with numerous covers and references in films, TV shows, and commercials. The song has also been certified Gold by the RIAA, signifying sales of over 500,000 copies.
Covers and Samples
"I Want Candy" has been covered by numerous artists, including Bow Wow Wow, Lulu, and Sugarcubes. The song has also been sampled in various tracks, including LL Cool J’s "Mama Said Knock You Out" and Kanye West’s "Gold Digger".
Interesting Facts
- Bert Berns wrote the song in just 10 minutes, making it one of his fastest-written compositions.
- The Strangeloves recorded the song in just one take, with the band’s lead singer, Dickie Goodman, singing live in the studio.
- I Want Candy has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Grease, The Simpsons, and Glee.
- **The song has been translated into numerous languages, including French, German, and Italian.
Table: "I Want Candy" Chart Performance
| Chart | Peak Position | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Billboard Hot 100 | 11 | 1965 |
| Billboard Adult Contemporary | 16 | 1965 |
| UK Singles Chart | 5 | 1979 (Bow Wow Wow cover) |
Conclusion
"I Want Candy" is a song that has stood the test of time, with its catchy melody and lyrics remaining iconic to this day. The song’s creation is a testament to the talent and creativity of Bert Berns, who wrote the song in just 10 minutes. The song’s impact on popular music is undeniable, with numerous covers and samples throughout the years. Whether you’re a fan of the original Strangeloves version or one of the many covers, "I Want Candy" is a song that is sure to get stuck in your head.
Additional Resources
- "I Want Candy" lyrics: www.lyrics.com
- "I Want Candy" songfacts: www.songfacts.com
- Bert Berns biography: www.allmusic.com