The Meaning Behind The Song: Lollipop by The Chordettes
When The Chordettes released “Lollipop” in 1958, it quickly became a hit, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Despite its cheerful melody and playful lyrics, there’s actually a deeper meaning behind the song.
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
At first glance, “Lollipop” seems like a song about innocent love and candy. The lyrics talk about a girl who wants a guy to give her a lollipop, and promises to be his “steady date” in return. But as the song progresses, the lyrics become more suggestive:
“So come on and be my sugar baby
Come on and be my honey pie
You’re my sweetie-pie
You’re my cuppycake
I love you so, and I’ll never let you go
Come on and be my sugar baby
Come on and be my sticky pear
It’s so very nice to have you near
So come on and stick with me, baby.”
These lines may seem innocent enough, but they actually contain a lot of euphemisms for sex. “Sugar baby” and “honey pie” could both refer to a young lover, while “sticky pear” may be a subtle nod to slang terms for female anatomy.
The True Meaning
So, what is the true meaning of “Lollipop”? Some suggest that it’s a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the sexual expectations placed on women during the 1950s. Women were expected to be demure and submissive, but at the same time, they were expected to please their male partners. The lyrics of “Lollipop” may be a way of poking fun at these expectations, while also acknowledging that women can enjoy sex too.
Another interpretation is that “Lollipop” is simply a love song with a playful twist. The lyrics may be suggestive, but they also convey a sense of joy and happiness. The Chordettes were known for their upbeat, wholesome songs, and “Lollipop” is no exception. It’s possible that the song was simply meant to make people smile and dance.
The Legacy of “Lollipop”
Regardless of its true meaning, “Lollipop” remains a beloved song to this day. It has been covered by numerous artists, including The Bay City Rollers, Lil Wayne, and even Korean pop group Big Bang. The song has also appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including Grease, The Simpsons, and American Horror Story.
Despite its enduring popularity, however, “Lollipop” is often overlooked as an important cultural artifact. The song is a reminder of a time when societal norms were very different than they are today. It’s also a testament to the power of music to convey complex ideas and emotions in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The Importance of Context
One important thing to keep in mind when examining the meaning behind songs like “Lollipop” is the importance of context. What may seem shocking or inappropriate by today’s standards may have been perfectly acceptable in the past. It’s important to understand the historical and cultural factors that influenced the creation of a particular song or piece of art.
At the same time, it’s also important to acknowledge that our society is constantly evolving and changing. What was once considered taboo or controversial may now be seen as progressive or empowering. As we continue to explore the meaning behind songs like “Lollipop,” we should strive to maintain an open mind and a willingness to reconsider our assumptions.
The Legacy of The Chordettes
Finally, it’s worth noting the larger legacy of The Chordettes. The all-female group was one of the most popular vocal groups of the 1950s, with hits like “Mr. Sandman” and “Born to Be With You”. Their legacy is a testament to the power of female voices, both in music and in society as a whole. Today, nearly 70 years after their formation, The Chordettes continue to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers.
In conclusion, the meaning behind “Lollipop” may be open to interpretation, but there’s no denying the impact that it has had on popular culture. From its catchy melody to its playful lyrics, the song is a reminder of a simpler time in music history. But more than that, it’s a testament to the enduring power of music to entertain, inspire, and challenge us to think differently about the world around us.
