Bubblegum is generally traced to the success of the 1968 songs "Simon Says" by the 1910 Fruitgum Company and "Yummy Yummy Yummy" by the Ohio Express.

Robin Carmody of Freaky Trigger writes that British bubblegum from 1968 to 1972 was distinct from the "more worldly and sophisticated American equivalent" by being "simplistic, childish, over-excited, innocent, full of absolute certainties and safe knowledges", while noting that it "essentially bridged the gap between the poppier end of the mid-60s beat boom and glam rock".

1970s hits and influence

Most bubblegum acts were one hit wonders (notable exceptions included the Partridge Family and Tommy Roe) and the genre remained a significant commercial force until the early 1970s. Bubblegum failed to maintain its chart presence after the early 1970s due in part to changing trends in the industry. Producers such as Kasenetz and Katz subsequently pursued different musical avenues. Another example is Danish-based Eurodance being labeled as such, most notably "Barbie Girl" from Aqua.

See also

  • Rockism and poptimism
  • Yé-yé
  • 1960s in music
  • Pop rock
  • Psychedelic pop
  • Sunshine pop
  • J-pop
  • Euro pop

References

Sources

  • Billboard Kid Albums