From Ronald & Ruby to The Chordettes: The Journey of “Lollipop”

“Lollipop” became one of The Chordettes’ most iconic songs, showcasing their harmonious vocals and the playful spirit of the time. Originally written by Julius Dixson and Beverly Ross, the song was first recorded by the duo Ronald & Ruby. However, it was The Chordettes’ rendition that catapulted the song to international fame, reaching No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard chart and No. 3 on the R&B chart. The song’s unique “pop” sound, created by finger-in-mouth popping noises, and rhythmic hand claps added to its distinctive appeal.

Lollipop

Origin of the Song: The inspiration for “Lollipop” came when Julius Dixson’s daughter got a lollipop stuck in her hair, causing him to be late for a songwriting session with Beverly Ross. This incident sparked the creation of the song.

Initial Recording: The original version by Ronald & Ruby reached No. 20 on the Billboard chart. However, due to the interracial makeup of the duo, some radio stations were hesitant to play their version, leading to The Chordettes’ cover gaining more prominence.

Chart Success: The Chordettes’ version of “Lollipop” not only achieved significant success in the U.S. but also reached No. 6 in the UK and topped the Canadian charts.

Cultural Impact: Over the years, “Lollipop” has been featured in various films, commercials, and even video games like Just Dance Kids 2, highlighting its enduring popularity.

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