OT - The search for the perfect pop song

[QuikSand]

Okay, I know from previous musical threads here that true pop music isn’t many people’s cup of tea. I’m sure there are some people here who will confess to really liking it … but for each one of them there are ten who will say “All pop music is crap, and you couldn’t make me listen to it even if you attached electrodes to my genitals!” If that’s all we can get from you on the topic – then please, kindly move along, there’s nothing for you to see here.





…okay.

Now, where were we? Pop music. Specifically, pop songs. I think there’s art even in such a medium. (And no, I don’t count myself as a true fan of pop music)

What is the definition of a pop song? I don’t know – but I reckon it’s a little like “pornography,” where most everyone’s best working definition seems to be “I don’t know exactly, but I know it when I see it.”

What makes for a great pop song? I don’t know. In my mind, I think it has to be pretty approachable – it can’t be the sort of geeked-up political, metaphorical, obtuse, philosophical, emo-driven crap that overthinkers like me ordinarily tend toward. No, a true pop song is for everyone. It should have a certain catchiness, maybe a little storyline, or at least a simple message that we can easily understand. Again – it’s tough to get a handle one, but I hope you’re with me so far.

Ideally, the value of a great pop song lies in the song itself, not just the performance of the song, which is really an amalgamation of the song but also the musical arrangement, the instruments chosen, the singer’s peculiarities, and the production approach. All those things, in my mind, make a record – but really, I’d rather talk about a song here. You ought to be able to read the lyrics, and get a sense of the song itself – even without having to depend on a certain backbeat, or a particular inflection from the singer, or that sort of thing.

Not that the performance is irrelevant, but it shouldn’t be everything. I think of a song like (fairly random example here) “Don’t Stop Believing” as performed by Journey. On paper, just the lyrics, I don’t think that it’s really all that much of a song. The well-known performance, however, is definitely one of the most beloved pop singles of the last few decades – I’d submit that it’s a great record, but not a great song. But maybe that’s just me. Perhaps my own karaoke rendition would have you rocking just as well as theirs.

So, without further ado… have any thoughts about truly great pop songs? Maybe even the greatest pop song? Maybe even… dare we say it… the perfect pop song?

[QuikSand]

I humbly submit, for your consideration


- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I'm a Believer
By Neil Diamond

I thought love was only true in fairy tales
Meant for someone else but not for me.
Love was out to get me
That's the way it seemed.
Disappointment haunted all my dreams.

Then I saw her face, now I'm a believer
Not a trace of doubt in my mind.
I'm in love, I'm a believer!
I couldn't leave her if I tried.

I thought love was more or less a given thing,
Seems the more I gave the less I got.
What's the use in tryin'?
All you get is pain.
When I needed sunshine I got rain.

Then I saw her face, now I'm a believer
Not a trace of doubt in my mind.
I'm in love, I'm a believer!
I couldn't leave her if I tried.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


Yes, this comes from two recent exposures to the Smash Mouth remake, done for (I believe) and used in the movie Shrek.

What can I say? I think this song, as it is there on paper, fits the bill for me awfully well. It fits into absolutely perfect meter, the rhymes are immaculate (and not a single one is the all-too-common “painfully forced rhyme” that pervades bad pop songs), and the contents is… well, right on target for a good pop song.

The original version by Diamond was fine, but he didn’t bring quite the right energy to it that The Monkees could. (Isn’t that just too often the case for Neil Diamond?) I guess anything positive I’d want to say about the Monkees (and that really isn’t all that much) I could say as well about Smash Mouth (perhaps our modern equivalent?) and I enjoy their version just about as much (and thought it worked very well in Shrek).

Wonderful song, I submit. Great art? Probably not. Winner in this particular contest? You be the judge.

I trust you get the idea…

[korme]

Smash Mouth, the modern equivalent to the Monkees? In a word, no.

[Franklinnoble]

Any of Madonna's big hits.

Walk Like An Egyptian

Dirty Laundry

Jump (Van Halen... or you could go with Kris Kross...)

Can't Touch This

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

I dunno... those are the first things that pop into my head when I think "pop song"

[Franklinnoble]

Dola... maybe a better question would be "perfect pop artist." Lots of singers/bands have songs that reach #1 on the pop charts... but you wouldn't ordinarily consider them pop artists.

[JeeberD]

OT, but the first tape I ever owned was The Best of The Monkees. I would come home from school and watch their show on Nick every day, so my bro and sis bought it for me for one birthday.

I think I still have that sucker in a box somewhere...

[albionmoonlight]

I think I'd have to go with Madonna's Like a Prayer.

And there has to be more than lyrics or you are just looking at poems. I don't really know enough about music to be able to picture the music of a song separate from the performance of it.

[Ksyrup]

A 'quik' comment...

I think - or at least the way I've read your explanation - that you're putting too much emphasis on the lyrics of the song. What you see "on paper" is really the last thing that makes a song great. The melody has to be first and foremost, and you can't really get that from the lyrics. The lyrics can turn a very good song into a great one, but the best lyrics in the world can't turn a bad song into a good one.

That said, this is an interesting topic. For me, the whole 'pornography' part of it is whether the song is being performed by a group of musicians as opposed to an "entertainer" - my term for the Britney Spearses of the world. Singers who show up, let someone else write and perform the music, and spend more time on choreography than the music. That type of 'pop' I have absolute disdain for. And if that's what you're looking for, then I'm at a loss to describe a 'good' pop song.

However, if you're talking about pop/rock - the kind written and performed by actual musicians - I'm a big fan of well-crafted pop music. The problem is, very little of it these days can be considered 'pop,' as in 'popular.' And most of the songs that come to my mind are (a) not well known; and (b) probably a bit too sophisticated either in music or lyrical content, to fit what you are looking for.

However, since I want to play along, I'll throw out a song that I think fits what you are looking for, although I'll admit it probably isn't the type of 'pop' song you're looking for, and it may not be my #1 choice, but just oof the top of my head:

Jellyfish's Baby's Coming Back


I knew that when I saw her
that my life would soon move over from the fast lane
gone would be the days of all by drinkin and my carrying on
but when I settled down
the party king uncrowned
this stubborn memory hadn't faded
too many dumb mistakes
and all the grief it makes
left nothing else to be debated

and if you say that you understand then you're lyin'
but if you figure that I'm alright now I can't deny it

Baby's coming back
baby's coming back
and I'm on my best behavior
I can't take it anymore
I just woke up on the floor today
I've long run out of my last chances but she's on her way

If I had a dollar for every single time I fought her
I'd buy a handgun
but that couldn't shoot away
the bull's eye that she made on my heart

and if I sound like a beaten man well I guess so
but on her way is the sweetest prize and I can't let go

What I told her on the telephone was that I'd been so bad
I wouldn't blame her if she mowed down these wild oats I'd sown
but when she said she'd give me one more chance
I said knock three times when you arrive

Baby's coming back...


This song's got it all - catchy, sing-song verses and chorus, a well-known and easily digestible storyline, some clever lyrics to boot...

I could probably nominate a dozen Jellyfish songs, but most of them have lyrics that are too briilliant, and subject matter that is to obtuse, to be fully digested by the masses. But this one I think works.

[Franklinnoble]

A 'quik' comment...

I think - or at least the way I've read your explanation - that you're putting too much emphasis on the lyrics of the song. What you see "on paper" is really the last thing that makes a song great. The melody has to be first and foremost, and you can't really get that from the lyrics. The lyrics can turn a very good song into a great one, but the best lyrics in the world can't turn a bad song into a good one.

That said, this is an interesting topic. For me, the whole 'pornography' part of it is whether the song is being performed by a group of musicians as opposed to an "entertainer" - my term for the Britney Spearses of the world. Singers who show up, let someone else write and perform the music, and spend more time on choreography than the music. That type of 'pop' I have absolute disdain for. And if that's what you're looking for, then I'm at a loss to describe a 'good' pop song.

However, if you're talking about pop/rock - the kind written and performed by actual musicians - I'm a big fan of well-crafted pop music. The problem is, very little of it these days can be considered 'pop,' as in 'popular.' And most of the songs that come to my mind are (a) not well known; and (b) probably a bit too sophisticated either in music or lyrical content, to fit what you are looking for.

However, since I want to play along, I'll throw out a song that I think fits what you are looking for, although I'll admit it probably isn't the type of 'pop' song you're looking for, and it may not be my #1 choice, but just oof the top of my head:

Jellyfish's Baby's Coming Back


I knew that when I saw her
that my life would soon move over from the fast lane
gone would be the days of all by drinkin and my carrying on
but when I settled down
the party king uncrowned
this stubborn memory hadn't faded
too many dumb mistakes
and all the grief it makes
left nothing else to be debated

and if you say that you understand then you're lyin'
but if you figure that I'm alright now I can't deny it

Baby's coming back
baby's coming back
and I'm on my best behavior
I can't take it anymore
I just woke up on the floor today
I've long run out of my last chances but she's on her way

If I had a dollar for every single time I fought her
I'd buy a handgun
but that couldn't shoot away
the bull's eye that she made on my heart

and if I sound like a beaten man well I guess so
but on her way is the sweetest prize and I can't let go

What I told her on the telephone was that I'd been so bad
I wouldn't blame her if she mowed down these wild oats I'd sown
but when she said she'd give me one more chance
I said knock three times when you arrive

Baby's coming back...


This song's got it all - catchy, sing-song verses and chorus, a well-known and easily digestible storyline, some clever lyrics to boot...

I could probably nominate a dozen Jellyfish songs, but most of them have lyrics that are too briilliant, and subject matter that is to obtuse, to be fully digested by the masses. But this one I think works.
Yeah, see... it's gotta be popular. And I've never heard of these guys. Any relation to Green Jelly? Those guys had a pretty good pop song once...

[Fonzie]

How about something from the King of Pop himself - say, Michael Jackson's Billie Jean?

[Ksyrup]

Were looking for great pop songs, not the most well-known great pop songs. There's plenty of 'pop' music out there that no one has heard of - that doesn't make it any less 'pop' music, just because it's not popular. But maybe QS can clarify - are we talking about songs that are popular, or 'pop music' as a genre?

Like I said, if that's the criteria, I think I'll have to sit on the sidelines for this one.

[NoMyths]

Best pop artists of all time: The Beatles.

[Buzzbee]

I'd throw out songs by the Beach Boys, if more bands had covered them. Pure pop. Catchy tune, upbeat positive lyrics. Not deep or really thought provoking. Appeal to a broad base of people. That's kinda how I picture pop.

Early Beatles (Love me do, I wanna hold your hand, Hard days night) might have some good candidates. Perhaps some Elvis. Jailhouse rock and many of his other "movie" hits. Carl Perkins and Blue Suede shoes. Those are some older ones that come to mind. Twist and Shout.

Later examples might be R.E.M. - End of the World as we Know it, What's the Frequency Kenneth and other later R.E.M stuff (drawing a blank on song titles); the Police - Wrapped around my finger, Every Breath you take, Don't Stand (so close to me); Tom Petty - most anything he did solo.

Probably not as specific as you'd hoped, but perhaps it'll get others thinking.

[Franklinnoble]

How about something from the King of Pop himself - say, Michael Jackson's Billie Jean?
I liked Beat It and Smooth Criminal better, but that's just me.

[korme]

No, Billie Jean was the best MJ song bar none! Fonzie wins!

[Franklinnoble]

No, Billie Jean was the best MJ song bar none! Fonzie wins!
Dude, were you even alive when the Thriller album came out?

Beat It spawned the most popular satire Weird Al Yankovic ever made, and it probably was singularly responsible for his career taking off...

[Buzzbee]

Frankin judges pop songs by how well they translate to Wierd Al parodies.

American Pie, Beat it, and Smells Like Teen Spirit (wasn't that the name of the Nirvannah song W. A. did) are his favorites.

[Fonzie]

I liked Beat It and Smooth Criminal better, but that's just me.

I actually preferred Beat It myself, but as a "pop" song I think Billie Jean is technically better. It is more melodic, establishes a more intense emotional tone, and has fewer of QS's "forced" rhymes than Beat It. Still, some of the lyrics are phrased and/or sung awkwardly which, while providing some crypticness, makes the song's full comprehension a bit less accessible. Thus, I'm not sure it is the best submission for this competition, but I felt something by Michael Jackson needed to be nominated.

[Franklinnoble]

Dude, were you even alive when the Thriller album came out?

Beat It spawned the most popular satire Weird Al Yankovic ever made, and it probably was singularly responsible for his career taking off...
This gets me thinking... we could totally create an objective ratings system to determine the best pop song of all time; assigning points for certain bits of notoriety the song received. Something like the following:


Tops the Billboard Pop Charts: 10 points per week
Covered by another band: 50 points per cover
Satirized by Wierd Al: 100 points
Appears in a movie: 50 points per movie
Appears in a TV commercial: 50 points per commercial

[Fonzie]

I'd throw out songs by the Beach Boys, if more bands had covered them. Pure pop. Catchy tune, upbeat positive lyrics. Not deep or really thought provoking. Appeal to a broad base of people. That's kinda how I picture pop.

An excellent example of a pop band, I agree. California Girls might be a good nominee from them.

the Police - Wrapped around my finger, Every Breath you take, Don't Stand (so close to me)

I was also thinking of Wrapped Around My Finger and King of Pain as potential nominees. Both are classic pop songs.

[Raiders Army]

This gets me thinking... we could totally create an objective ratings system to determine the best pop song of all time; assigning points for certain bits of notoriety the song received. Something like the following:


Tops the Billboard Pop Charts: 10 points per week
Covered by another band: 50 points per cover
Satirized by Wierd Al: 100 points
Appears in a movie: 50 points per movie
Appears in a TV commercial: 50 points per commercial

That's a fucking good idea!

[Alf]

With your points ranking, the winner would be : My way

[Buccaneer]

QS, to answer a part of your question, I think it has to do with the well-known "contemporary music hook". Probably in all of the popular 'pop' songs, there is a hook or two that everyone wants to hear over and over again. It's that hook that makes a song popular, imo. I put very, very little emphasis on lyrics - partly because of my hearing but mostly is that I believe the human voice is just another instrument. It doesn't matter what the words say (or mean) but how well they match to the pitch, tone and sound of the melody.

[Franklinnoble]

Why does Fritz have a little plus sign next to his name when I look at the "Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread:" list?

Oh, and I'm wondering why there's no love for Hansen so far...

[Fritz]

because I am IT, dumbass

[MJ4H]

There is no contest. Best pop song ever is "Bridge over Troubled Water."

[Fritz]

I would submit the following:

Sugar Sugar
( The Archies )

Sugar, ah, honey, honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you
Honey, ah, sugar, sugar
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you

I just can't believe the loveliness of loving you
(I just can't believe it's true)
I just can't believe the one to love this feeling to
(I just can't believe it's true)

Ah, sugar, ah, honey, honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you
Honey, ah, sugar, sugar
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you

When I kissed you, girl, I knew how sweet a kiss could be
(I know how sweet a kiss can be)
Like the summer sunshine pour your sweetness over me
(Pour your sweetness over me)

Sugar, pour a little sugar on it, honey
Pour a little sugar on it, baby
I'm gonna make your life so sweet, yeah yeah yeah!
Pour a little sugar on it oh, yeah!
Pour a little sugar on it, honey
Pour a little sugar on it, baby
I'm gonna make your life so sweet, yeah yeah yeah!
Pour a little sugar on it, honey!

Sugar, ah, honey, honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you
Honey, ah, sugar sugar
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you

Sugar, ah, honey, honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you
Honey, ah, sugar sugar
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you

[Fritz]

if it is not what I posed above, it is:

The Supremes---Baby Love

Ooh-ooh

Baby love, my baby love,
I need ya, oh, how I need ya
But all you do is treat me bad,
Break my heart and leave me sad
Tell me, what did I do wrong
To make you stay away so long?

'Cause, baby love, my baby love,
Been missin' ya, miss kissin' ya
Instead of breakin' up (don't throw our love away)
Let's do some kissin' and makin' up (don't throw our love away)
Don't throw our love away
In my arms, why don't you stay?

Need ya, need ya
(Baby love, ooh, baby love)

INSTRUMENTAL BRIDGE

Baby love, my baby love,
Why must we be separate, my love?
All of my whole life through (don't throw our love away)
I never loved no one but you (don't throw our love away)
Why do you do me like you do?
I get this need (baby)

Ooh, ooh

Need to hold you once again, my love,
Feel your warm embrace, my love
Don't throw our love away (don't throw our love away)
Please don't do me this way (don't throw our love away)
Not happy like I used to be
Loneliness has got the best of me

My love, my baby love,
I need ya, oh, how I need ya
Why do you do me like you do (don't throw our love away)
After I've been true to you, (don't throw our love away)
So deep in love with you?
Baby baby (baby) ooh

'Til it's hurtin' me, 'til it's hurtin' me
Ooh (baby love, ooh), baby love
Don't throw our love away (don't throw our love away)
Don't throw our love away (don't throw our love away)
(fade out)

[Fritz]

The check can be mailed to my home address.

[Fritz]

From the exiled sjshaw:

Come On Eileen

( Dexys Midnight Runners )

(Come on Eileen!)
(Come on Eileen!)

Poor old Johnny Ray
Sounded sad upon the radio
He moved a million hearts in mono
Our mothers cried and sang along and who'd blame them?
Now you're grown, so grown, now I must say more than ever
Go toora loora toora loo rye aye
And we can sing just like our fathers ....

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything
With you in that dress, my thoughts I confess
Verge on dirty ......
Ah, come on Eileen!

(Come on Eileen!)
(Come on Eileen!)

These people round here wear beaten down eyes
Sunk in smoke dried faces
They're so resigned to what their fate is
But not us, no not us
We are far too young and clever
Go toora loora toora loo rye aye
Eileen, I'll sing this tune forever

Come on, Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
Ah come on, let's take off everything
That pretty red dress .... Eileen (tell him yes)
Ah, come on! Come on Eileen!!!

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything

Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye

Go toora loora toora loo rye aye

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything
With you in that dress, my thoughts I confess
Verge on dirty ......
Ah, come on Eileen!

Come on, Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
Ah come on, let's take off everything
That pretty red dress .... Eileen (tell him yes)
Ah, come on! Come on Eileen!!!

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything

[Fonzie]

I tend to think of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody as more of a rock song, but I suppose it qualifies as a pop song as well. This song has it all: nihilism, a man sentenced to die for murder (a plot we can all relate to), tempo changes, angry mobs arguing about his release, abundant use of falsetto, and an operatic bridge (containing the word "Beelzebub"!) which bursts out into one of the best guitar riffs in the history of the universe. What could be better?

Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody

Is this the real life ?
Is this just fantasy ?
Caught in a landslide
No escape from reality
Open your eyes
Look up to the skies and see
I'm just a poor boy, I need no sympathy
Because I'm easy come, easy go
A little high, little low
Anyway the wind blows, doesn't really matter to me, to me

Mama, just killed a man
Put a gun against his head
Pulled my trigger, now he's dead
Mama, life had just begun
But now I've gone and thrown it all away
Mama, ooo
Didn't mean to make you cry
If I'm not back again this time tomorrow
Carry on, carry on, as if nothing really matters

Too late, my time has come
Sends shivers down my spine
Body's aching all the time
Goodbye everybody - I've got to go
Gotta leave you all behind and face the truth
Mama, ooo - (anyway the wind blows)
I don't want to die
I sometimes wish I'd never been born at all

I see a little silhouetto of a man
Scaramouch, scaramouch will you do the fandango
Thunderbolt and lightning - very very frightening me
Gallileo, Gallileo,
Gallileo, Gallileo,
Gallileo Figaro - magnifico

But I'm just a poor boy and nobody loves me
He's just a poor boy from a poor family
Spare him his life from this monstrosity
Easy come easy go - will you let me go
Bismillah! No - we will not let you go - let him go
Bismillah! We will not let you go - let him go
Bismillah! We will not let you go - let me go
Will not let you go - let me go (never)
Never let you go - let me go
Never let me go - ooo
No, no, no, no, no, no, no -
Oh mama mia, mama mia, mama mia let me go
Beelzebub has a devil put aside for me
For me
For me

So you think you can stone me and spit in my eye
So you think you can love me and leave me to die
Oh baby - can't do this to me baby
Just gotta get out - just gotta get right outta here

Ooh yeah, ooh yeah
Nothing really matters
Anyone can see
Nothing really matters - nothing really matters to me

Anyway the wind blows...

[JeeberD]

Why does Fritz have a little plus sign next to his name when I look at the "Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread:" list?

Because you have him on your "Buddy List"...

[oliegirl]

I hate to admit this, but Fritz listed my all time favorite 80's pop song! Come on Eileen by Dexy's Midnight Runners...I owned that on a 45 at one point in my youth (a long, long time ago!!!)

[Franklinnoble]

Because you have him on your "Buddy List"...
Oh... duh.

[Fritz]

I hate to admit this, but Fritz listed my all time favorite 80's pop song! Come on Eileen by Dexy's Midnight Runners...I owned that on a 45 at one point in my youth (a long, long time ago!!!)

have I mentioned you have the prettiest eyes?

[Fritz]

dola, why would you hate to admit it?

[Fritz]

dola

it wast me anyhow

[QuikSand]

Sorry if i was unclear above. I'm trying to separate the concepts of "song" and "record." If you're focusing on best-selling singles, weeks on the pop chart, melodies, and the like -- you're answering a different question than I'm asking. It's a fine debate, just not the one I thought I was starting.

Also, there's a difference (as I intend it) between "a song that has been released in the rock/pop genre" and "a pop song." As much as I love the song Bridge Over Troubled Water, it's not at all what I'm talking about here - and even Billie Jean, I would argue, is too sophisticated to be a true pop song.

Fritz is on my wavelength. These are pop songs.

But carry on... it's an interesting discussion, regardless of what I think/thought.

[Suicane75]

I find Hansons Mmmm-Bop to be a very good, high quality pop song. Good lyrics, good musicianship, a hell of a hook and a great melody.

[Maple Leafs]

QS, to answer a part of your question, I think it has to do with the well-known "contemporary music hook". Probably in all of the popular 'pop' songs, there is a hook or two that everyone wants to hear over and over again. It's that hook that makes a song popular, imo. I put very, very little emphasis on lyrics - partly because of my hearing but mostly is that I believe the human voice is just another instrument. It doesn't matter what the words say (or mean) but how well they match to the pitch, tone and sound of the melody.Bingo. And these days, the "hook" isn't even a line from the song. In some cases, it's just a cute little noise that gets skillfully mixed in. That recent Usher hit was a perfect example -- the little whistle noise was one of several clever hooks in that song.

I honestly believe that for a lot of thse big hits, you could swap in different lyrics and even different music. Put that hook on a completely different song, mix it in well (not an easy thing, by the way), and you'd have the same level of hit.

[CentralMassHokie]

I propose "Denise" by Fountains of Wayne as the perfect pop song.

Cool, jangly guitars - check
"Sha la la" harmonies - check
About a girl - check
Moderately non-sensical lyrics - check

Fountains of Wayne - "Denise"

I know this girl named Denise
She makes me weak at the knees
She drives a lavender Lexus
She lives in Queens but her dad lives in Texas

[sha la la la la la la]
When she holds me
[sha la la la la la la]
I can’t help myself
[sha la la la la la la]
Won’t you tell me
Do you love me Denise?
Whoa-oh
Do you love me Denise?
Oh baby tell me please
[do ya do ya ah-oh do ya do ya]

I heard she used to be married
She listens to Puff Daddy
She works at Liberty Travel
She got a heart made of gravel

[sha la la la la la la]
She controls me
[sha la la la la la la]
She can’t help herself
[sha la la la la la la]
Won’t you tell me
Do you love me Denise?
Whoa-oh
Do you love me Denise?
Oh baby tell me please
[do ya do ya ah-oh do ya do ya]

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/clipserve/B00000IFW1001003/0/103-0313598-0278251

[thesloppy]

I have always been partial to Chuck Berry's 'Memphis' as recorded by Johnny Rivers.

The guitar has an very very slight growl and menace that added just enough of a blues/rock edge. The lyrics are Berry at his best, suggesting your typical lost-love song until the end when it becomes clear that he's singing about his daughter. The thing that pushes this song over the edge for me is the ultra-sweet 60s technique of overdubbing a 'party atmosphere' complete with people hootin' and a-hollerin' in the background and the sounds of highballs and ice cubes clanking about.

Long distance information, give me Memphis Tennessee
Help me find a party that tried to get in touch with me
She could not leave a number but I know who placed the call
'cause my uncle took a message and he wrote it on the wall

Help me, information, get in touch with my Marie
She's the only one who'd call me here from Memphis Tennessee
Her home is on the south side, high upon a ridge
Just a half a mile from the Mississippi bridge

Last time I saw Marie she was wavin' me goodbye
With "hurry-home" drops on her cheek that trickled from her eye
But we were pulled apart because her mom did not agree
And tore apart our happy home in Memphis Tennessee

Help me, information, more than that I cannot add
Only that I miss her and all the fun we had
Marie is only six years old, information please
Try to put me through to her in Memphis Tennessee



Aside form that personal fave, 'Come on Eileen' is an awesome fucking song that gets discredited too much because of the whole 80s kitsch.

[Ksyrup]

I propose "Denise" by Fountains of Wayne as the perfect pop song.
Good choice. That's a great song. I think you and I are on the same wavelength.

[Honolulu Blue]

I've always thought of pop music as the kind that got played on the pop music stations and made the pop music lists (e.g. Billboard) regardless of genre - rock, country, gospel, even heavy metal have equal chances of being pop songs. But music seems more fractured these days, and I'm not sure my definition applies anymore.

I'm not quite sure what QS is looking for, so I won't comment on that, but what I look for in a pop song is the same as I look for in any song - clever lyrics, memorable melody, and grabby hooks.

[QuikSand]

I'm not quite sure what QS is looking for

It's better that way. My discussion topic wasn't as engaging as this one is.

[Suicane75]

Love grows where my rosemarry goes

[Leonidas]

What, no Pink Floyd's Several Species of Small Furry Creatures in a Cave Grooving with a Pict? You all are such cretins.

[SirFozzie]

Katrina and the Waves: "Walking on Sunshine". Peppy Poppy Good stuff.

[Bad-example]

Paging: Elton John

[Groundhog]

Generally speaking I don't pay too much attention to lyrics, but when it comes to fave pop songs I'd have to go with a Beatles song, Michelle. One of my fave songs.

[Ksyrup]

Actually, since QS started this thread, I thought about nominating a Billy Joel song. :)

[JeeberD]

Katrina

She went to Stuttgart American High School back in the seventies.

Go Stallions!!! :)

[Ksyrup]

If I was goign to choose a Beatles song, it would be the obvious - the one I think that was voted greatest song ever - In My Life.

[QuikSand]

Actually, since QS started this thread, I thought about nominating a Billy Joel song.

Up yours, pal.

[Fritz]

Walking on Sunshine was a good nomination.

[QuikSand]

Walking on Sunshine was a good nomination.

I agree.

[Fritz]

shal I say it? yes.

Wake me up before you go-go. Wham!

[Fritz]

I guess Pop Music should be here

[Fritz]

as should be FunkyTown

[kcchief19]

Also, there's a difference (as I intend it) between "a song that has been released in the rock/pop genre" and "a pop song." As much as I love the song Bridge Over Troubled Water, it's not at all what I'm talking about here - and even Billie Jean, I would argue, is too sophisticated to be a true pop song.When I think "pop song," I immediately rule out songs that are "too sophisticated" as well. Some of the suggestions above I'd put into that category would be songs by REM and something like the Police's "Every Breath You Take." I think you have to rule out songs with irony or deep messages.

I also tend to rule out songs that are a bit too novelty. A song like "Centerfold" by the J Geils Band fits that category -- great song, just a bit too "fun." As much as I'd like to give the nod to Fozzie's "Walking On Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves -- great song -- it also doesn't quite have the weight either.

I initially thought of two songs when I read Quik's first post -- "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion and "Yesterday" by the Beatles. But despite the pop appeal of those songs, they are a bit too slow for my taste for this discussion.

If I had to pick an artist that would have the perfect pop song, it would be either Madonna or Prince. Sure, both have songs that are too deep ("Like a Prayer") or novelty ("Raspberry Beret"), but I don't know if you could go wrong with a "When Doves Cry" or "Like a Virgin." For less popular artists, I'd go with everyone's favorite Sweedish duo, Roxette. I admit I was a sucker for this group. They had a number of great pop songs, my favorite of which would have to be "Fading Like a Flower."

My two nominees are clearly tainted by my background -- pop music was perfected between 1982 and 1990, or the from the time I discovered "pop music" through high school. My two picks:

"Don't You Want Me?" by the Human League
"Heat of the Moment" by Asia

[Fonzie]

OK, I think I'm getting a better feel for what 'pop' songs are (as opposed to 'records'). Here's a submission that I think is a bit closer to what you were thinking of QS:

(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay
by Otis Redding and Steve Cropper

Sittin' in the mornin' sun
I'll be sittin' when the evenin' come
Watching the ships roll in
And then I watch 'em roll away again, yeah

I'm sittin' on the dock of the bay
Watching the tide roll away
Ooo, I'm just sittin' on the dock of the bay
Wastin' time

I left my home in Georgia
Headed for the 'Frisco bay
'Cause I've had nothing to live for
And look like nothin's gonna come my way

So I'm just gonna sit on the dock of the bay
Watching the tide roll away
Ooo, I'm sittin' on the dock of the bay
Wastin' time

Look like nothing's gonna change
Everything still remains the same
I can't do what ten people tell me to do
So I guess I'll remain the same, yes

Sittin' here resting my bones
And this loneliness won't leave me alone
It's two thousand miles I roamed
Just to make this dock my home

Now, I'm just gonna sit at the dock of the bay
Watching the tide roll away
Oooo-wee, sittin' on the dock of the bay
Wastin' time

(whistle)

[Fritz]

betty davis eyes does not have the sugar, but it has the hook

[kurtism]

Notable for it's absence is Crowded House's "Something So Strong"

(Although I personally prefer "Weather With You," but it is more obscure.)

Neil Finn is, in my mind at least, the perfect pop songsmith. Incredible hooks, nice beat, and excellent lyrics. Plus, you can cash in on the LoTR New Zealand craze!!!

[Fritz]

If I had to pick an artist that would have the perfect pop song, it would be either Madonna or Prince.

something like Lets go crazy?

[kurtism]

Staying out of the states, what about "Mayor of Simpleton" by XTC?

[cuervo72]

No, Billie Jean was the best MJ song bar none! Fonzie wins!

No no no. Don't Stop Till You Get Enough.

I would like to throw out Don't Bring Me Down by ELO and My Sharona by the Knack. Viva 1979!!!

[QuikSand]

I might offer up "Tempted" from Squeeze. A little bit complex for the original category... but it has the other elements that have been discussed.

[Fritz]

Oh Mickey - Toni Basil

[QuikSand]

No no no. Don't Stop Till You Get Enough.

Now that is the MJ song that fits the original bill.

[cuervo72]

I might offer up "Tempted" from Squeeze. A little bit complex for the original category... but it has the other elements that have been discussed.

I've always liked Hourglass myself.

I Want Candy by Bow Wow Wow is also a good little song.

[kurtism]

"Tempted" is great, Quik. Another worthy contribution, this time from the states, is "Girlfriend" by Matthew Sweet.

[MJ4H]

Sorry if i was unclear above. I'm trying to separate the concepts of "song" and "record." If you're focusing on best-selling singles, weeks on the pop chart, melodies, and the like -- you're answering a different question than I'm asking. It's a fine debate, just not the one I thought I was starting.

Also, there's a difference (as I intend it) between "a song that has been released in the rock/pop genre" and "a pop song." As much as I love the song Bridge Over Troubled Water, it's not at all what I'm talking about here - and even Billie Jean, I would argue, is too sophisticated to be a true pop song.

Fritz is on my wavelength. These are pop songs.

But carry on... it's an interesting discussion, regardless of what I think/thought.

Ok I just disagree with the definition of pop song you are using here.

[Bad-example]

No no no. Don't Stop Till You Get Enough.

I would like to throw out Don't Bring Me Down by ELO and My Sharona by the Knack. Viva 1979!!!

Hey! Don't throw those songs out!



They're still good.


Daniel
Tiny Dancer
Rocketman
Don't Go Breakin' my Heart
Bennie and the Jets

Sir Elton has several songs that deserve consideration.

[Frozenrope]

I would like to submit the following:

You Don't Know How it Feels Tom Petty

Cuts You Up Peter Murphy

Anything by the duo kings of pop: Daryl Hall and John Oates

Stupidly Happy XTC

Black Velvet Alanah Myles

[Fritz]

something harder, but still pop would be Blitzkrieg Bop

[Passacaglia]

Maybe NoMyths can suggest one.

[RealDeal]

From a pure pop song crafting standpoint, I think probably the best two songs are Happy Together by the Turtles and Billie Jean by Jacko.

[mckerney]

Swing, Swing

[Bad-example]

Something Tells Me I'm into Something Good - Herman's Hermits

[Ksyrup]

Another worthy contribution, this time from the states, is "Girlfriend" by Matthew Sweet.
That entire album fits the category.

[SunDancer]

I have a general interest for pop music (as with any music, I really dont have artists I follow, but if a song sounds good, I like it), but I found that most of the mainstream pop music are talent that really, well, aren't talented.

[Frozenrope]

I Can See Clearly Now has to be the all-time feel good pop tune.

[QuikSand]

How about Blue Suede Shoes. And maybe Devil in a Blue Dress. Both very solid pop songs, perhaps before we really had defined "pop" too well.

[cuervo72]

Goody Too Shoes by Adam Ant
Centerfold by J. Geils Band (also Freeze Frame)

[kurtism]

"There She Goes" by the Las... modern pop nirvana (the state of being, not the band)

[clintl]

Waterloo Sunset, The Kinks

[thesloppy]

The Righteous Brothers released a couple classic pop-epics in 'You've Lost That Loving Feeling' and 'Unchained Melody', although both had a little too much white-boy soul to be considered true pop. The Everly Brothers also put out some truly excellent material that often gets overlooked when people talk about good pop music, they also might suffer due to genre-blending, but unlike the Righteous Bros. barritone soul, the Everly's affected more of a country twang.

Although I don't know if I would put any of his songs in the very top spot, Burt Bacharach penned a simply staggering number of pop masterpieces, remarkable both for their quality and sheer quantity. Bacharach, much like his earlier mentioned contemporary Neil Diamond, also benefitted greatly by having his material performed by some of the days premier performers like Dusty Springfield, Gene Pitney, the Drifters, and Dionne Warwick. 'Do You Know the Way To San Jose', 'Walk on By', '(There's) Always Something There to Remind Me', '(They Long to Be) Close to You', 'Wishin' and Hopin'', is just a small fraction of some of Bacharach's hits, and there are just as many not-as-popular gems hidden in his catalog that surpass the hits.

[Buzzbee]

One that might fit the bill:

What I Like About You
by The Romantics


What I like about you
You hold me tight
Tell me I'm the only one
Wanna come over tonight?

Warm whispering in my ear
Tell me all the things that I want to hear
'Cause it's true
That's what I like about you

What I like about you
You really know how to dance
When you go up down, jump around
Talk about about true romance

Warm whispering in my ear
Tell me all the things that I want to hear
'Cause it's true
That's what I like about you
That's what I like about you
That's what I like about you

What I like about you
You keep me warm at night
Never wanna let you go
You know you make me feel alright

Warm whispering in my ear
Tell me all the things that I want to hear
'Cause it's true
That's what I like about you
That's what I like about you
That's what I like about you
That's what I like about you
That's what I like about you
That's what I like about you
That's what I like about you

[QuikSand]

The Everly Brothers

YES. Wake Up, Little Susie --one of the great pop songs, for certain. Yes.

[thesloppy]

This is a great thread QS, some of the suggestions get you tapping your feet and humming along just by hearing the title.

Some truly excellent suggestions by others having just scanned the thread again:

In My Life - Beatles -- I think that would be my beatles pick too, gives me the 'music shivers' still sometimes.
Tempted - Squeeze -- What a great song, from start to finish.
Don't You Want Me - Human League -- Of course!
Anything by Hall and Oates -- God I hate the fact that I luvs me some H&O.
Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough - MJ -- Can't feel down when I hear that one start up.
Waterloo Sunset - The Kinks -- Great great song, personally I'd go with 'Starstruck'.

As for Funkytown, if that makes the list then I think there's some Chic and Earth Wind and Fire songs that merit consideration.

Also, shouldn't there be some Duran Duran in here somewhere? Rio perhaps?

[Fonzie]

Anything by the duo kings of pop: Daryl Hall and John Oates

I was thinking they might be worthy of a nomination as well, but am uncertain as to which song. Rich Girl should be a contender, but I'm partial to She's Gone, myself.

[Fonzie]

Also, shouldn't there be some Duran Duran in here somewhere? Rio perhaps?

Dola-

I agree - but was thinking of The Reflex because it is a classic "nonsense" song. Rio or Hungry Like The Wolfwould also be good choices.

[thesloppy]

What I Like About You
by Ramones

Great song! But somehow, this is an insult to both the Ramones and the Romantics at the same time. Reminds me of the good old days of napster when practically every MP3 ID file was completely wrong and if you did a search for Willie Nelson the only song that would come back is 'Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer'.

[CentralMassHokie]

Bus Stop by The Hollies

[Buzzbee]

Great song! But somehow, this is an insult to both the Ramones and the Romantics at the same time. Reminds me of the good old days of napster when practically every MP3 ID file was completely wrong and if you did a search for Willie Nelson the only song that would come back is 'Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer'.

Nice catch. Missed that in the cut and paste. Will correct out of respect for both groups.

[WSUCougar]

I'd go with everyone's favorite Sweedish duo, Roxette. I admit I was a sucker for this group. They had a number of great pop songs, my favorite of which would have to be "Fading Like a Flower."
w00t! That's an awesome song, good call. I also like "It Must've Been Love" and "Joyride" by Roxette.

Speaking of Swedish bands and pop, no ones mentioned Abba yet. They dominated the 1970s pop scene all over the world. You've got literally dozens of songs to pick from, but "Dancing Queen" is probably the most memorable.

And how about the Go-Gos? "Our Lips Are Sealed" or "We Got the Beat" might get some votes. Madonna's already been mentioned but she's a heavy pop hitter, especially her early stuff.

[clintl]

What about "Route 66", written by Bobby Troup and performed by just about everyone?

Or Hank Williams' "Move It On Over"?

[Desnudo]

Okay, I know from previous musical threads here that true pop music isn’t many people’s cup of tea. I’m sure there are some people here who will confess to really liking it … but for each one of them there are ten who will say “All pop music is crap, and you couldn’t make me listen to it even if you attached electrodes to my genitals!” perfect pop song?

What does being pro-electrodes on genitals have to do with pop music?

[Ksyrup]

This thread just confirms what I've known for years - by the 90's, the art of the pop/rock song was relegated to the bottom of the barrel. Not sure if that's the fault of radio conglomerates, MTV, or just a change in public taste. It used to be that pop music was, at least in part, made up of songs written and performed by actual bands, like many of the 60's, 70's, and 80's suggestions in this thread. For the most part, those kinds of artists are no longer in the mainstream and thus, very few people are nominating any songs from the 90's to present.

[thesloppy]

Some more guilty (and not so guilty) pleasures in the pop vein:

America - Sister Goldenhair
Culture Club - Karma Cameleon / Do You Really Want to Hurt Me
Modern English - Melt With You
Oasis - Wonderwall
Rod Stewart - Do Ya Think I'm Sexy
Rupert Holmes - Escape (The Pina Colada Song)
Sonny and Cher - Baby Don't Go
Starland Vocal Band - Afternoon Delight
Tears For Fears - Head Over Heels
New Edition - Candy Girl / Cool It Now
Hollies - King Midas In Reverse
Miami Sound Machine - Conga
The Jets - Whatever the hell their song was
Bo Diddley - Bo Diddley
English Beat - Sooner or Later


I also agree with ABBA as a great pick!

[mordhiem]

This thread just confirms what I've known for years - by the 90's, the art of the pop/rock song was relegated to the bottom of the barrel. Not sure if that's the fault of radio conglomerates, MTV, or just a change in public taste. It used to be that pop music was, at least in part, made up of songs written and performed by actual bands, like many of the 60's, 70's, and 80's suggestions in this thread. For the most part, those kinds of artists are no longer in the mainstream and thus, very few people are nominating any songs from the 90's to present.

Pop is still very strong in Britain, it is still acceptable to be called 'a pop band' here without loosing all credibility. New bands like Keane (very popular, but I don't really like them) and Franz Ferdinand (who are really, stonkingly, terrific) actually activley cultivate the label 'pop band'. But then Britain has always had a strong pop tradition from The Beatles to Bowie to Oasis to Coldplay.

[cuervo72]

As for Funkytown, if that makes the list then I think there's some Chic and Earth Wind and Fire songs that merit consideration.


And Rick James! (bitch)


I agree - but was thinking of The Reflex because it is a classic "nonsense" song. Rio or Hungry Like The Wolfwould also be good choices.

I love the Reflex. Had a 45 of it.

Some more guilty (and not so guilty) pleasures in the pop vein:

America - Sister Goldenhair
.....
Rod Stewart - Do Ya Think I'm Sexy
.....
I also agree with ABBA as a great pick!

Waterloo maybe? And I had been thinking Infatuation for Stewart (excellent, excellent video too ;) ). And I'll give a thumbs up to Sister Goldenhair.

Bus Stop by The Hollies

Car Wash anyone? ;)

[mordhiem]

My nomination:

Paperback Writer - The Beatles

When I think of classic 60's pop, that is the exact sound I think of. The Beatles post-boy band stage, but pre-experimental 'serious rock band' stage.

[clintl]

This thread just confirms what I've known for years - by the 90's, the art of the pop/rock song was relegated to the bottom of the barrel. Not sure if that's the fault of radio conglomerates, MTV, or just a change in public taste. It used to be that pop music was, at least in part, made up of songs written and performed by actual bands, like many of the 60's, 70's, and 80's suggestions in this thread. For the most part, those kinds of artists are no longer in the mainstream and thus, very few people are nominating any songs from the 90's to present.

OK, I'll nominate some.

"Planet Love", the Dylans
"Feed the Tree", Belly
"The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead", XTC
"Dreams", The Cranberries
"Here's Where the Story Ends", The Sundays
"When the Stars Go Blue", The Corrs with Bono
"Hell", Squirrel Nut Zippers
"Zoot Suit Riot", Cherry Poppin' Daddys

Not from the 90s or later, but a couple that haven't been mentioned yet:

"Balloon Man", Robyn Hitchcock
"September Gurls", Big Star

[Fonzie]

ABBA's Waterloo absolutely rocks. I'm also a big fan of Take a Chance on Me, which is more in keeping with their pop tradition.

[ahbrady]

QS, I'm pretty much in complete agreement with you as to what would qualify as a pop song and what wouldn't. I agree that "Billie Jean" is probably too serious to be considered, and I also think that "Don't stop til you get enough" is probably MJ's best submission for this topic. But I would still consider "Beat It" to be a pretty good one as well. Were you saying it was too serious as well? I don't know that it really matters, just curious.

For Hall & Oates, I would submit "Maneater." I'm a pretty big fan of "Come on Eileen." I think that's my favorite of the ones mentioned so far.

[ahbrady]

What does being pro-electrodes on genitals have to do with pop music?

Everything. Is that not what everyone does when listening to pop music?

[thesloppy]

This thread just confirms what I've known for years - by the 90's, the art of the pop/rock song was relegated to the bottom of the barrel. Not sure if that's the fault of radio conglomerates, MTV, or just a change in public taste. It used to be that pop music was, at least in part, made up of songs written and performed by actual bands, like many of the 60's, 70's, and 80's suggestions in this thread. For the most part, those kinds of artists are no longer in the mainstream and thus, very few people are nominating any songs from the 90's to present.

I think the pure pop style of music has been pretty much moved to the smaller labels, but it's certainly still being performed by groups like the Shins and the Apples in Stereo, Mates of State, GBV, etc. etc. but it just fails to really fulfill the whole 'popular' part. On the other hand most popular music today seems to go through so much genre mashing that it's hard to classify as true pop. I am sad enough to admit to actually liking more than a handful of neuvo-soul/pop by the likes of Usher, Ginuiwine and Timberlake, but I really wouldn't classify as either 'pop' or 'great'. However, I'm COMPLETELY SURE that I would've had the same complaints you voiced above about 95% of the 80s songs we've mentioned here at the time or soon after. Some of the stuff we hate now might sound great in ten years if you let it stand on it's own.

Likewise, don't give 60s pop groups too much credit...a lot of these guys are great bands and great songwriters, but were even more reliant on producers, session musicians, and someone else's words and music than the groops today. I think it was a law in the 60s that you had to record at least three Beatles songs on every record produced.

[clintl]

I think it was a law in the 60s that you had to record at least three Beatles songs on every record produced.

And the Beatles had to record at least three songs for each album from the Fifties until they proved themselves.

[Fonzie]

Joe Jackson - Steppin' Out.

[thesloppy]

Joe Jackson - Steppin' Out.

That's a GREAT one!

Elvis Costello also has some songs that should be considered, I'd go with 'Radio' myself.

[Buzzbee]

This thread just confirms what I've known for years - by the 90's, the art of the pop/rock song was relegated to the bottom of the barrel. Not sure if that's the fault of radio conglomerates, MTV, or just a change in public taste. It used to be that pop music was, at least in part, made up of songs written and performed by actual bands, like many of the 60's, 70's, and 80's suggestions in this thread. For the most part, those kinds of artists are no longer in the mainstream and thus, very few people are nominating any songs from the 90's to present.

I pretty much agree with this. However, are we returning to pop with people/acts like the Spice Girls, Brittany Spears, NSync, Back Street Boyz, Christina Aguilera, and more recently Hillary Duff and Raven Simone. I guess you could consider this the "Disney movement". (Can't you tell I have pre-teen/new-teen daughters.)

Wouldn't they be considered the essence of pop? I'd contend that we don't mention them because they are like poison (oooh, there's a pop hair band for you - Cherry Pie, She's Only 17) to us since a lot of us grew up with pop music of the 80's and it is therefore a trip down memory lane (an acid trip for some, I'm sure). However, I'm pretty sure Brittany Spears has a song or two that belongs in this thread, whether we like it or not.

[ahbrady]

Warrant sang "Cherry Pie."

[Buzzbee]

Dola - Also I think the movement of the record labels to grunge in the early to mid 90's (Pearl Jam, Nirvannah, Stone Temple Pilots, etc.) and later to hip hop kinda changed the idea of what was 'popular'. To me, hip hop is the new pop.

[Buzzbee]

Warrant sang "Cherry Pie."

Warrant, Poision, Ratt. Same difference. :p

[Bubba Wheels]

I would submit the following:

Sugar Sugar
( The Archies )

Sugar, ah, honey, honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you
Honey, ah, sugar, sugar
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you

I just can't believe the loveliness of loving you
(I just can't believe it's true)
I just can't believe the one to love this feeling to
(I just can't believe it's true)

Ah, sugar, ah, honey, honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you
Honey, ah, sugar, sugar
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you

When I kissed you, girl, I knew how sweet a kiss could be
(I know how sweet a kiss can be)
Like the summer sunshine pour your sweetness over me
(Pour your sweetness over me)

Sugar, pour a little sugar on it, honey
Pour a little sugar on it, baby
I'm gonna make your life so sweet, yeah yeah yeah!
Pour a little sugar on it oh, yeah!
Pour a little sugar on it, honey
Pour a little sugar on it, baby
I'm gonna make your life so sweet, yeah yeah yeah!
Pour a little sugar on it, honey!

Sugar, ah, honey, honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you
Honey, ah, sugar sugar
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you

Sugar, ah, honey, honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you
Honey, ah, sugar sugar
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you

Trivia note: This song was performed by the Archies after the Monkees declined to record it. Written, I believe, by the song writing team of Boyce and Hart (featured in a Bewitched episode) who wrote the majority of the Monkees tunes.

Monkees also get a perpetual bad rap. They were what they were, a made-for-TV pop group that did play their own instruments at the end and did make some catchy and engaging pop tunes that still stand up today.

[Bubba Wheels]

From the exiled sjshaw:

Come On Eileen

( Dexys Midnight Runners )

(Come on Eileen!)
(Come on Eileen!)

Poor old Johnny Ray
Sounded sad upon the radio
He moved a million hearts in mono
Our mothers cried and sang along and who'd blame them?
Now you're grown, so grown, now I must say more than ever
Go toora loora toora loo rye aye
And we can sing just like our fathers ....

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything
With you in that dress, my thoughts I confess
Verge on dirty ......
Ah, come on Eileen!

(Come on Eileen!)
(Come on Eileen!)

These people round here wear beaten down eyes
Sunk in smoke dried faces
They're so resigned to what their fate is
But not us, no not us
We are far too young and clever
Go toora loora toora loo rye aye
Eileen, I'll sing this tune forever

Come on, Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
Ah come on, let's take off everything
That pretty red dress .... Eileen (tell him yes)
Ah, come on! Come on Eileen!!!

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything

Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye
Come on, Eileen, taloora aye

Go toora loora toora loo rye aye

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything
With you in that dress, my thoughts I confess
Verge on dirty ......
Ah, come on Eileen!

Come on, Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
Ah come on, let's take off everything
That pretty red dress .... Eileen (tell him yes)
Ah, come on! Come on Eileen!!!

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything

Come on Eileen! Well, I swear (what he means)
At this moment, you mean everything

Probably says too much about me, but my absolute favorite of all time. Great video.

[QuikSand]

... thus, very few people are nominating any songs from the 90's to present.

I dunno... isn't this always how it works when people are asked to name "great" anything? Anything that hasn't been declared old is somehow a sophomoric selection, it shows you aren't refined and don't have enough appreciation for "the old stuff."

How about "Two Princes" by the Spin Doctors? I'm right on the border between liking and hating the song, but it has a lot of the elements of a good pop record.

[Bubba Wheels]

Show Me The Way: Kiss

[cuervo72]

Another song with a tie to Michael Jackson (and of course, the Hollies): Rockin' Robin.

(hmm, the Hollies are a pretty decent band for this; also Peggy Sue, Just One Look, and my favorite of theirs, Long Cool Woman).

edit: ok, maybe not Peggy Sue. That website was wrong!! And I believed them!!!

[Ksyrup]

I dunno... isn't this always how it works when people are asked to name "great" anything? Anything that hasn't been declared old is somehow a sophomoric selection, it shows you aren't refined and don't have enough appreciation for "the old stuff."

How about "Two Princes" by the Spin Doctors? I'm right on the border between liking and hating the song, but it has a lot of the elements of a good pop record.
That song is pretty catchy, just not my style.

On the first point, just to show I've got an appreciation for the old stuff...and I don't think this one's been mentioned yet, but I could be wrong...how about Pretty Woman?

[Fritz]

for the 90s

how about Laid? (might be too complex)

I think you might have to look to bands like EMF, The Soup Dragons, Jesus Jones, etc to get what you are looking for.

[Ksyrup]

I think you might have to look to bands like EMF, The Soup Dragons, Jesus Jones, etc to get what you are looking for.
I don't think so. There are plenty of power pop-type bands writing perfect pop songs that no one hears. Again, I don't think a song needs to be popular in order to qualify as a great pop song.

[Fritz]

I don't think so. There are plenty of power pop-type bands writing perfect pop songs that no one hears. Again, I don't think a song needs to be popular in order to qualify as a great pop song.


I could rattle off long list of obscure or semi obscure pop music from the 90s. I don't think that is what the thread orginaly called for.

[Ksyrup]

If they are great pop songs, how does that not fit the original definition as described by QS? I see nothing that suggests the songs have to be chart-toppers or any such criteria.

[WSUCougar]

Some more recent fare:

"Kiss Me" by Six Pence None the Richer
"Breathless" by The Corrs (which is simply an awesome song IMO)
That fast song by the Bare Naked Ladies, I think it's something like "Three Days"

[HornedFrog Purple]

"Jack and Diane" by John Cougar Mellencamp?
"Glory Days" by Bruce Springsteen?

[HornedFrog Purple]

dola

"Jukebox Hero" by Foreigner

[Mac Howard]

Hasn't John Lennon's "Imagine" been voted best pop song of all time several times?

My own choice is "A Whiter Shade of Pale" by Procol Harlem.

[QuikSand]

for the 90s

how about Laid? (might be too complex)

I think you might have to look to bands like EMF, The Soup Dragons, Jesus Jones, etc to get what you are looking for.

Right Here, Right Now did come to mind for me, too.

I love the song Laid (and that album, too) but I agree it's too complex for the category I have/had in mind.

[ahbrady]

Hasn't John Lennon's "Imagine" been voted best pop song of all time several times?

My own choice is "A Whiter Shade of Pale" by Procol Harlem.

"Imagine" may have been voted best pop song, but I wouldn't think it would qualify by the standards that have been put up here.

I like "A Whiter Shade of Pale."

[GrantDawg]

So, do the song lyrics have to make sesnse? If so, then as pointed out already, that leaves out Duran Duran, but they have some of the catchiest hooks/beats. Reflex being a great one, Wild Boys, New Moon on Monday being a couple of others.

Their slower songs come the closest to acually have lyrics that make sense. Songs like Save A Prayer, Ordinary World and Come Undone.

[Passacaglia]

"Dance to the Music" Sly and the Family Stone
"True" Spandau Ballet

[Bubba Wheels]

That song is pretty catchy, just not my style.

On the first point, just to show I've got an appreciation for the old stuff...and I don't think this one's been mentioned yet, but I could be wrong...how about Pretty Woman?

The one man Elvis stated he would never follow on stage...Roy Orbison. Elvis never wanted his own voice compared to Ray's, he thought it was that good.

[judicial clerk]

You've Lost that Lovin' Feelin'

[zums]

If they are great pop songs, how does that not fit the original definition as described by QS? I see nothing that suggests the songs have to be chart-toppers or any such criteria.


Yes, that is correct. Chart-topping or popularity were not among the original criteria. Go on and list as many obscure, unheard by everybody but you pop songs. There should be some great discussion about em. Err....

-zums

[SplitPersonality1]

Pop is still very strong in Britain, it is still acceptable to be called 'a pop band' here without loosing all credibility. New bands like Keane (very popular, but I don't really like them) and Franz Ferdinand (who are really, stonkingly, terrific) actually activley cultivate the label 'pop band'. But then Britain has always had a strong pop tradition from The Beatles to Bowie to Oasis to Coldplay.

I've just discovered Franz Ferdinand and absolutley love "Take Me Out". Great guitar riff and love the tempo shift midway through the song. Good tune. Haven't had a chance to listen to much of there other stuff, but so far I like what I've heard.

Sorry to threadjack. Carry on.

[Aylmar]

One of my favorites:

Any way you want it
That’s the way you need it
Any way you want it

She loves to laugh
She loves to sing
She does everything
She loves to move
She loves to grove
She loves the lovin’ things

Ooh, all night, all night
Oh, every night
So hold tight, hold tight
Ooh, baby, hold tight

Oh, she said,
Any way you want it
That’s the way you need it
Any way you want it
She said, any way you want it
That’s the way you need it
Any way you want it

I was alone
I never knew
What good love could do
Ooh, then we touched
Then we sang
About the lovin’ things

Ooh, all night, all night
Oh, every night
So hold tight, hold tight
Ooh baby, hold tight

Oh, she said,
Any way you want it
That’s the way you need it
Any way you want it
She said, any way you want it
That’s the way you need it
Any way you want it

Okay, I admit it. I love Journey. I have nearly all their albums and have slowly replaced them with CDs. Time for me to crawl back into my hole. :)

[Fonzie]

Okay, I admit it. I love Journey. I have nearly all their albums and have slowly replaced them with CDs. Time for me to crawl back into my hole. :)

You're not alone, my friend. Quik's example of a pop "record," Don't Stop Believin', is a great example of pop music (although not a pop "song", per his definition). Since we've already diverged a bit from submitting just strictly-defined pop songs, here's another Journey submission from a somewhat ashamed fan:

Journey - Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'

You make me weep and wanna die
Just when you said we’d try
Lovin’, touchin’, squeezin’ each other

When I’m alone all by myself
You’re out with someone else
Lovin’, touchin’, squeezin’ each other

You’re tearin’ me apart
Every day, every day
You’re tearin’ me apart
Oh what can I say?
You’re tearin’ me apart

It won’t be long, yes till you’re alone
When your lover, oh, he hasn’t come home
Cause he’s lovin’ oo, he’s touchin’,
He’s squeezin’ another

He’s tearin’ you apart
Every day, every day
He’s tearin’ you apart
Oh girl what can you say?
Cause he’s lovin’, touchin’ another
Now it’s your turn, girl to cry
Na na na na na na
Na na na na na
Na na na na na na
Na na na na na

[Buddy Grant]

The definition of a great pop song has changed over the decades, during tin pan alley times lyrics were probably a lot more important than they were in the 1960's-1990's. During the big band era lyrics were often secondary to a hooky melody (and a driving beat didn't hurt). The music factories of the 50's, 60's and 70's seemed to be going for similar things from a great pop song in those days: big hooky choruses that repeated ad nauseum, and that mainstream (AKA pop) song writing strategy continues today. To ensure popularity among youth (wasn't that always the target of pop music? I think so) each era must include some current musical references so that the music does not sound like the youth's parents version of pop music. In the swing era the rocking beat set those pop songs apart from the previous generations, in the 1950's and early 60's the R&B music influences in pop would make the big band loving parent declare that Pat Boone pop was nothing but noise. The later 1960's pop tended to have either drug references or some trippy musical instrument or sound (eg: tremelo in crimson & clover vox). Later 1970's and early 80's pop often had new wave or heavy metal influences, and 1990's+ pop has a mix of house, rap, electronic influences to fool some kiddies (the ones that go for pop music) into thinking these songs are their music, even though the pop song structure and arrangements resemble the same pop songs from 1962.

That being said, my fave pop from various era's...
1950's: Doo Wop hits
1960's: Motown factory hits & Brill building songs
1970's: Cars & Reservoir Dogs soundtrack
1980's: Too embarrased to admit even to strangers.
1990's-now: Stopped listening to 'pure' pop music, but enjoy pop-influenced non-mainstream music. Not to be cool but because it's generally much better, IMO.

[SunDancer]

[QUOTE=Buzzbee]I pretty much agree with this. However, are we returning to pop with people/acts like the Spice Girls, Brittany Spears, NSync, Back Street Boyz, Christina Aguilera, and more recently Hillary Duff and Raven Simone. I guess you could consider this the "Disney movement". (Can't you tell I have pre-teen/new-teen daughters.)
QUOTE]

I cannot stand Hillary Duff. Sadly, if these people actually song without all the electronic improvements that make them sound alot better then they really are, I would have alot more respect for them.

[oykib]

Dion and the Belmonts -- "Runaround Sue"

2-Pac -- "Holler if Ya Hear Me"

Marvin Gaye -- "I Heard it Through the Grapevine"

The Temptations -- "Can't Get Next to You"

Prince -- "Seven" (not that I have any idea what it means, but it sounds like something S. T. Coleridge might've written)

[Buccaneer]

My very favorite and most influential genre has been the folk/pop movement coming out of the 60s and reaching its peak in the early-mid 70s. This has influenced not only those seeking alternatives to acid rock but also profoundly caused a radical shift (and schism) among Christians with the Jesus Movement (which I identify with very closely). I believe there were several ancestors to this (from pure folk, country, gospel, etc.) that gave rise to the "coffee-house" singers of the 60s which then migrated to the "back-to-nature" singers and bands of the 70s. My (and my wife's) main love of this music, as I had expressed a while back, has focused on John Denver, even back to his early days in the LA coffee-houses and the Chad Mitchell Trio. With that, I submit Rocky Mountain High as a pop classic.

[duckman]

Eminem's The Real Slim Shady is a very good example of the modern 'pop' song. The song has a very recognizeable beat and the chorus is very catchy. It was the song that propelled his album into the number 1 rap album of all time.

May I have your attention please?
May I have your attention please?
Will the real Slim Shady please stand up?
I repeat, will the real Slim Shady please stand up?
We're gonna have a problem here..

Y'all act like you never seen a white person before
Jaws all on the floor like Pam, like Tommy just burst in the door
and started whoopin her ass worse than before
they first were divorce, throwin her over furniture (Ahh!)
It's the return of the... "Ah, wait, no way, you're kidding,
he didn't just say what I think he did, did he?"
And Dr. Dre said... nothing you idiots!
Dr. Dre's dead, he's locked in my basement! (Ha-ha!)
Feminist women love Eminem {*vocal turntable:
chigga chigga chigga*} "Slim Shady, I'm sick of him
Look at him, walkin around grabbin his you-know-what
Flippin the you-know-who," "Yeah, but he's so cute though!"
Yeah, I probably got a couple of screws up in my head loose
But no worse, than what's goin on in your parents' bedrooms
Sometimes, I wanna get on TV and just let loose, but can't
but it's cool for Tom Green to hump a dead moose
"My bum is on your lips, my bum is on your lips"
And if I'm lucky, you might just give it a little kiss
And that's the message that we deliver to little kids
And expect them not to know what a woman's clitoris is
Of course they gonna know what intercourse is
By the time they hit fourth grade
They got the Discovery Channel don't they?
"We ain't nothing but mammals.." Well, some of us cannibals
who cut other people open like cantaloupes {*SLURP*}
But if we can hump dead animals and antelopes
then there's no reason that a man and another man can't elope
{*EWWW!*} But if you feel like I feel, I got the antidote
Women wave your pantyhose, sing the chorus and it goes

Chorus: Eminem (repeat 2X)

I'm Slim Shady, yes I'm the real Shady
All you other Slim Shadys are just imitating
So won't the real Slim Shady please stand up,
please stand up, please stand up?

[Eminem]
Will Smith don't gotta cuss in his raps to sell his records;
well I do, so fuck him and fuck you too!
You think I give a damn about a Grammy?
Half of you critics can't even stomach me, let alone stand me
"But Slim, what if you win, wouldn't it be weird?"
Why? So you guys could just lie to get me here?
So you can, sit me here next to Britney Spears?
Shit, Christina Aguilera better switch me chairs
so I can sit next to Carson Daly and Fred Durst
and hear 'em argue over who she gave head to first
You little bitch, put me on blast on MTV
"Yeah, he's cute, but I think he's married to Kim, hee-hee!"
I should download her audio on MP3
and show the whole world how you gave Eminem VD {*AHHH!*}
I'm sick of you little girl and boy groups, all you do is annoy me
so I have been sent here to destroy you {*bzzzt*}
And there's a million of us just like me
who cuss like me; who just don't give a fuck like me
who dress like me; walk, talk and act like me
and just might be the next best thing but not quite me!

Chorus

[Eminem]
I'm like a head trip to listen to, cause I'm only givin you
things you joke about with your friends inside your living room
The only difference is I got the balls to say it
in front of y'all and I don't gotta be false or sugarcoated at all
I just get on the mic and spit it
and whether you like to admit it {*ERR*} I just shit it
better than ninety percent of you rappers out can
Then you wonder how can kids eat up these albums like valiums
It's funny; cause at the rate I'm goin when I'm thirty
I'll be the only person in the nursin home flirting
Pinchin nurses asses when I'm jackin off with Jergens
And I'm jerkin but this whole bag of Viagra isn't working
And every single person is a Slim Shady lurkin
He could be workin at Burger King, spittin on your onion rings
{*HACH*} Or in the parkin lot, circling
Screaming "I don't give a fuck!"
with his windows down and his system up
So, will the real Shady please stand up?
And put one of those fingers on each hand up?
And be proud to be outta your mind and outta control
and one more time, loud as you can, how does it go?

Chorus 2X

[Eminem]
Ha ha
Guess there's a Slim Shady in all of us
Fuck it, let's all stand up

[lcjjdnh]

Here would be my top picks:

A Smokey Robinson tune-Probably Tears of a Clown
My Girl-The Temptations
Paperback Writer-Beatles
Two Princes-Spin Doctors

And because I'm listening to it right now and think it may be the perfect pop song:

No Rain-Blind Melon

Cool lyrics, great music and a catchy tune.

[cthomer5000]

"Kiss on My List" by Hall & Oates

[cthomer5000]

ABBA's Waterloo absolutely rocks.
The chorus simply cannot be denied. The same can be said for "Fernando" which is one of the best choruses I've ever heard trapped in an otherwise so-so song.

[Bubba Wheels]

Dion and the Belmonts -- "Runaround Sue"

2-Pac -- "Holler if Ya Hear Me"

Marvin Gaye -- "I Heard it Through the Grapevine"

The Temptations -- "Can't Get Next to You"

Prince -- "Seven" (not that I have any idea what it means, but it sounds like something S. T. Coleridge might've written)

I would add Del Shannon's 'Runaway" to that list.

[cuervo72]

I would add Del Shannon's 'Runaway" to that list.

This reminds me - I've always liked the song The Wanderer by Dion and the Belmonts. Another good one from the era - Why Do Fools Fall in Love.

[SirFozzie]

Top 5 Pop Songs I can think of right now:

Bananarama: Venus
Bangles: Walk Like An Egyptian
Ace of Base: Beautiful Life
Aqua: Barbie Girl
Roxette: The Look

[Warhammer]

OK, I am going to list my opinions for the best pop songs by some of the best known pop artists:

Billy Joel: Tell Her About It
Elton John: Candle in the Wind
John Melloncamp: Jack and Diane
Bruce Springsteen: Born in the USA
Hall & Oates: Private Eyes
Mariah Carey: Someday (can't believe I am saying this!)
Carly Simon: You're So Vain
ABBA: Dancing Queen
James Taylor: Fire & Rain
Jim Croce: Time in a Bottle
Whitney Houston: Greatest Love of All

[Critch]

How did this get to page 4 without mentioning the greatest 80's 'pop' band. The Thompson Twins: Hold Me Now needs to be considered, it's pointless, bouncy, lyrically crap, but still pretty inoffensive. And that just about defines pop for me.

[Senator]

No Enuff Z Nuff?

[andy m]

anything by the promise ring on the 'nothing feels good' lp.

[Ksyrup]

I pretty much agree with this. However, are we returning to pop with people/acts like the Spice Girls, Brittany Spears, NSync, Back Street Boyz, Christina Aguilera, and more recently Hillary Duff and Raven Simone. I guess you could consider this the "Disney movement". (Can't you tell I have pre-teen/new-teen daughters.)
Disney is all over Ravone Simone. I can't watch 2 minutes of Disney Channel with my daughter without her mug showing up on the screen.

[Mr. Wednesday]

poison (oooh, there's a pop hair band for you - Cherry Pie, She's Only 17)You're 0 for 2 there... Winger did "She's Only 17". :p

The songs that Poison is known for, offhand:
Every Rose Has Its Thorn
Your Momma Don't Dance (cover, isn't it?)
(by chorus, not sure of the title) Ain't looking for nothing but a good time

I don't know if they're known for it, but I prefer Something To Believe In.

[Mr. Wednesday]

For less popular artists, I'd go with everyone's favorite Sweedish duo, Roxette. I admit I was a sucker for this group. They had a number of great pop songs, my favorite of which would have to be "Fading Like a Flower.""Fading Like a Flower" is an incredible song.

Their first album (which does not include the aforementioned) is pretty good, it has several songs that would qualify under the current operating definition of "pop" as well as a few that are too "serious".

Among the singles-
"Pop":
The Look
Dressed For Success
Dangerous

"Serious":
Listen to Your Heart

[Ksyrup]

You're 0 for 2 there... Winger did "She's Only 17". :p

The songs that Poison is known for, offhand:
Every Rose Has Its Thorn
Your Momma Don't Dance (cover, isn't it?)
(by chorus, not sure of the title) Ain't looking for nothing but a good time

I don't know if they're known for it, but I prefer Something To Believe In.
The one that started it all was Talk Dirty To Me.

I never understood how that band was so popular back in the 80's. They went about as far as a "rock" band could go in the 80's without being forced to tour with Wham. I still remember some song called Unskinny Bop or something like that.

*shudder*

Winger got a bum wrap, thanks to the double-barrelled assault from Metallica and Beavis & Butthead. Truth is, that band was chock full o' superb studio musicians, which resulted in some above-average 80's rock, Winger's Don Johnson poses aside. I haven't heard that stuff in ages, though, and I'm sure it doesn't hold up well 15 years later.

[Fritz]

one day they will invent a thread rudder

[Honolulu Blue]

I don't know if they're known for it, but I prefer Something To Believe In.

I'm an I Want Action man myself, though I can't count Poison as one of my favorites.

[cthomer5000]

I've got a new entry here. It popped up on random recently, on some 80's compilation I have, and i forgot what an awesome guilty pleasure this song is for me. It was just that good I had to search for this thread.

"Easy Lover"
Phil Collins & Philip Bailey

Easy lover
She'll get a hold on you believe it
Like no other
Before you know it you'll be on your knees
She's an easy lover
She'll take your heart but you won't feel it
She's like no other
And I'm just trying to make you see

She's the kind of girl you dream of
Dream of keeping hold of
You'd better forget it
You'll never get it
She will play around and leave you
Leave you and deceive you
Better forget it
Oh you'll regret it

No you'll never change her, so leave it, leave it
Get out quick cos seeing is believing
It's the only way
You'll ever know

Easy lover
She'll get a hold on you believe it
Like no other
Before you know it you'll be on your knees
She's an easy lover
She'll take your heart but you won't feel it
She's like no other
And I'm just trying to make you see

You're the one that wants to hold her
Hold her and control her
You'd better forget it
You'll never get it
For she'll say there's no other
Till she finds another
Better forget it
Oh you'll regret it

And don't try to change her, just leave it, leave it
You're not the only one, ooh seeing is believing
It's the only way
You'll ever know, oh

No don't try to change her, just leave it, leave it
You're not the only one, ooh seeing is believing
It's the only way
You'll ever know, oh

She's an easy lover (she's a easy lover)
She'll get a hold on you believe it (get a hold on you)
(She's) like no other
Before you know it you'll be on your knees (you'll be down on your knees)
She's an easy lover
She'll take your heart but you won't feel it (you won't feel it)
She's like no other
And I'm just trying to make you see (trying to make you see)

[Ben E Lou]

Bump. Un-archive.

[cuervo72]

I will always associate "Easy Lover" with the Intellivision version of Bump 'n' Jump. Just one of those odd things where it was on when I happened to be playing the game, and the association somehow stuck with me.

I'll add another from the 80's that may or may not have been listed the first time around - Get Out of My Dreams (and into My Car) by Billy Ocean.

[cthomer5000]

I will always associate "Easy Lover" with the Intellivision version of Bump 'n' Jump. Just one of those odd things where it was on when I happened to be playing the game, and the association somehow stuck with me.
Blind Melon's self-titled first album and Weezer's first album will forever make me think of Super Mario Kart (for Super Nintendo). I can't even tell you how many hours I spent playing the game while listening to them.

[kcchief19]

something like Lets go crazy? Actually, that might be it.

Looking back on what I said when we first discussed this, my thoughts have really changed. The only thing I think I would add is that for it to be the "perfect" pop song it needs to be somewhat ubiquitous -- it needs to stretch across lines of age, gender, race, culture and whatnot. Despite his eccentricities and move toward obscurity in his later years, I think Prince is the Neil Diamond of his day in that both are tremendous pop-song crafters. Their songs lend themselves to various styles, tempos and voices. They can be covered by a wide range of artists and styles.

I think I favor "Let's Go Crazy" now because I see it as being the one song nominated that I can see being the song that gets everyone on the floor to dance when local cover band playing the wedding reception fires it up.

[Ksyrup]

I still look at this as a "scientific" question, if you will, instead of automatically gravitating toward songs that were popular. There are a number of very nearly perfect pop songs, as an art form, that very few people have heard.

[rkmsuf]

The answer is Justin Timberlake. Any song.

[zums]

havent read the whole thread (i remmeber starting reading it back in the day but didnt keep up) but here's my nomination:

the click five - just the girl


-zums

[Ksyrup]

I actually like Pop Princess from that Click Five album better, although the chorus reminds me of another song I can't place. Perfect song, though.

[cuervo72]

I still look at this as a "scientific" question, if you will, instead of automatically gravitating toward songs that were popular. There are a number of very nearly perfect pop songs, as an art form, that very few people have heard.

Why did this have to pop Puffy Ami Yumi into my mind? Not that very few have heard them I guess...


(gets uncontrollable urge to listen to Teen Titans theme song...T/E/E/N/T-I-T/A-N-S....Teen...Ti-tans...Let's GO!)

[kurtism]

The Teen Titans theme is pure, golden pop goodness from the Land of the Rising Sun.

[Ksyrup]

Why did this have to pop Puffy Ami Yumi into my mind? Not that very few have heard them I guess...


(gets uncontrollable urge to listen to Teen Titans theme song...T/E/E/N/T-I-T/A-N-S....Teen...Ti-tans...Let's GO!)
Ugh! I'm in a discussion about them on another board right now. I freaking hate them...or more to the point, I hate the fact that Andy Sturmer is wasting his time and considerable talent on that schlock. And word is that Butch Walker is next in line to work with them. What gives? What is it about young Japanese girls with voices like the chipmunks on helium that mystifies both porn addicts and great songwriters?

Here they are completely destroying one of the greatest pop songs of the past 2 decades (Jellyfish's Joining a Fan Club):

hxxp://www.bigbaer.com/archives/2005/08/_come_on_you_kn.html


She "brew him a kiss"?!?!? Are they flippin' serious?!

[Ksyrup]

The Teen Titans theme is pure, golden pop goodness from the Land of the Rising Sun.
Performance aside, there's no question that Andy Sturmer is a musical genius. If only he would use his powers for the good of mankind...

[cuervo72]

They're surprisingly older than I thought they were - born in 1973 and 1975.

[Ksyrup]

Yeah, they're in the 30s, but play 16 year olds on TV. It's what their 45 year old male fans want.

[cuervo72]

Hey, it worked for Ian Ziering.

[cuervo72]

DOla - I bet you hate Shonen Knife, too.

[Ksyrup]

Um...yes.

[Karlifornia]

Weezer-Buddy Holly (or Island In The Sun)
White Stripes-We're Going to be Friends

That song by I think...Blackstreet; It went "Don't leave me girl..please stay with me to-nii-ii--iight"

Proclaimers-I'm Gonne be (500 Miles)
Queen-We Are The Champions
Ace Of Base-I Saw the Sign
Beach Boys-Wouldn't It Be Nice
Marvin Gaye-Through The Grapevine
Gloria Gaynor-I Will Survive
Flamingos-I Only Have Eyes For You

[TroyF]

I open up this thread at the same time a co worker was humming the song "My Sharona"

Seems like it fits in here somewhere.

[Passacaglia]

Ugh! I'm in a discussion about them on another board right now. I freaking hate them...or more to the point, I hate the fact that Andy Sturmer is wasting his time and considerable talent on that schlock. And word is that Butch Walker is next in line to work with them. What gives? What is it about young Japanese girls with voices like the chipmunks on helium that mystifies both porn addicts and great songwriters?

Here they are completely destroying one of the greatest pop songs of the past 2 decades (Jellyfish's Joining a Fan Club):

hxxp://www.bigbaer.com/archives/2005/08/_come_on_you_kn.html


She "brew him a kiss"?!?!? Are they flippin' serious?!

I don't know if I'll be able to handle listening to that, so I'll probably pass. On the one hand, I guess it's cool they used the song, but on the other, kinda sucky that they trashed it.

[ThunderingHERD]

Belle & Sebastian's last album, <i>Dear Catastrophe Waitress</i>,yeilded no less than three perfect pop songs: "Step Into My Office Baby", "If She Wants Me", and "I'm A Cuckoo".

Their earlier stuff too, though the lyrical content may disqualify those songs from QuikSands definition. Except "Mayfly" maybe. <i>If You're Feeling Sinister</i> is a pefect pop record.

[kurtism]

Another gem from the realm of pure pop goodness: Teenage Fanclub's "What You Do To Me." Pretty sure this song has about 18 words in it, but still stands out as insidiously catchy. Plus, they're Scots, so liking them might get you in with a certain moderator...

[kurtism]

Here they are completely destroying one of the greatest pop songs of the past 2 decades (Jellyfish's Joining a Fan Club):

hxxp://www.bigbaer.com/archives/2005/08/_come_on_you_kn.html


She "brew him a kiss"?!?!? Are they flippin' serious?!

Severely delayed dola - just listened to the first few seconds of that "effort," right after spinning the original. PuffyAmiYumi should stick to animated theme songs, and leave the Jellyfish to the pros. Ick. I feel a bit dirty.

[Buccaneer]

Coincidently to the timing of this bump, I have been on a nostalgia kick lately in listening (over and over) to the greatest pop bands/albums of all time:

Monkees
Lovin' Spoonful
Paul Revere and the Raiders
Mamas and Papas
Byrds
Rascals
The Association
Grass Roots
Herman's Hermits
Hollies

[cthomer5000]

Once again, "Christmas Wrapping" by the Waitresses. If push came to shove i think i might list it as the most well-written song ever.

[Crapshoot]

Because I didn't see past the first page and I'm not sure if anyone would have mentioned this - how about Wake up Little Suzie by The Everly Brothers ?

Another option - though it may fall into the overly complex category - Norwegian Wood.

[QuikSand]

Wake up Little Suzie by The Everly Brothers ?

Far closer to what I originally had in mind, yeah. I have a problem with a few of the gratuitous rhymes, but that's so central to the culture, it's hard to hold it against them there.

[Senator]

I think every band has covered Be Bop A Lula at some point for its popiness.

[QuikSand]

You Can't Hurry Love

(b. holland/l. dozier/e. holland, jr.)

I need love, love
To ease my mind
I need to find, find someone to call mine
But mama said

You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said love don’t come easy
It’s a game of give and take

You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
You got to trust, give it time
No matter how long it takes

But how many heartaches
Must I stand before I find a love
To let me live again
Right now the only thing
That keeps me hangin’ on
When I feel my strength, yeah
It’s almost gone
I remember mama said:

You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said love don’t come easy
It’s a game of give and take

How long must I wait
How much more can I take
Before loneliness will cause my heart
Heart to break?

No I can’t bear to live my life alone
I grow impatient for a love to call my own
But when I feel that i, I can’t go on
These precious words keeps me hangin’ on
I remember mama said:

You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said love don’t come easy
It’s a game of give and take

You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said trust, give it time
No matter how long it takes

No, love, love, don’t come easy
But I keep on waiting
Anticipating for that soft voice
To talk to me at night
For some tender arms
To hold me tight
I keep waiting
I keep on waiting
But it ain’t easy
It ain’t easy
But mama said:

You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said to trust, give it time
No matter how long it takes

You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said love don’t come easy
It’s a game of give and take

[Senator]

Ugh! I'm in a discussion about them on another board right now. I freaking hate them...or more to the point, I hate the fact that Andy Sturmer is wasting his time and considerable talent on that schlock. And word is that Butch Walker is next in line to work with them. What gives? What is it about young Japanese girls with voices like the chipmunks on helium that mystifies both porn addicts and great songwriters?

Here they are completely destroying one of the greatest pop songs of the past 2 decades (Jellyfish's Joining a Fan Club):

hxxp://www.bigbaer.com/archives/2005/08/_come_on_you_kn.html


She "brew him a kiss"?!?!? Are they flippin' serious?!

Good Lord in heaven, I just saw this. So, the greatness of that song has come to this? Still, though, sadly Sturmer will make more money that he did the first go around. Who is next, Jason Faulkner?

[cuervo72]

You Can't Hurry Love

Wow, Phil Collins covered it and you still decided to use it!

(I had a cassette single of that version, fwiw, though the Supremes version is very good too of course)

Anyone mention Locomotion? That's been covered a few times; you have to figure (as Senator pointed out with Be Bop a Lula) if a song keeps being covered, it must work.

[cuervo72]

Dola - I don't really think it is considered "pop", but I was listening to Superstition for the umpteenth time on the way home today and wondered if musically you could do much better...I know that boils down to personal tastes, but damn do I like that song.

[oliegirl]

Once again, "Christmas Wrapping" by the Waitresses. If push came to shove i think i might list it as the most well-written song ever.


ugh - love that song, but now I have "you mean you forgot cranberries too" stuck in my head! that is one of the songs that I know about 5 or 6 lines to but try to sing it all the way through anyway and end up going "nanannnnaaaaa" until it comes to one of the parts I know :)

Thanks cthomer!

[Ksyrup]

Good Lord in heaven, I just saw this. So, the greatness of that song has come to this? Still, though, sadly Sturmer will make more money that he did the first go around. Who is next, Jason Faulkner?
Falkner wasted the better part of 2 years playing touring bass for French bore/act Air. Then he shelved his latest album to record with McCartney (which is understandable, I guess, but still...). He's supposed to have a new album out in 2006. Until then, I'm content with having a copy of the Bliss Descending demos which he supposedly scrapped for some reason. It's strange how so many people affiliated with Jellyfish have spent the rest of their careers supporting other, less talented (IMO) acts - Sturmer, Manning, Falkner, Dover, Brion, etc. More than a decade's worth of great music lost so that Manning could play keys for Beck and record a moog album. WTF?

[QuikSand]

Dola - I don't really think it is considered "pop", but I was listening to Superstition for the umpteenth time on the way home today and wondered if musically you could do much better...I know that boils down to personal tastes, but damn do I like that song.

I love that song, too, and completely agree.

[Senator]

Bliss Descending is pretty good. I have all his stuff.

[Ksyrup]

I actually don't like Bliss Descending all that much. The demos, which are the songs he scrapped for a full-length album - only one of which I think made the BD EP - are more like his older stuff. I'm not sure what to expect from him at this point, but I hope it's more like the demos and less like the EP, to be honest. His first two solo albums, plus the Grays collaboration with Jon Brion, are fantastic. Unfortunately, he put out only those 3 albums in the past 15 years, which is a crime.

[McSweeny]

how about "Train in Vain" by the Clash? or maybe "Should I Stay or Should I Go"?

[Mac Howard]

Assuming "pop" refers to popularity, if the wind up to many mainstream concerts is anything to go by (not concerts of individual artists or bands but such as Live 8 etc) then you can't get away from "Hey Jude" - seems like they drag McCartney out every time to send the crowd home happy :)

[tanglewood]

My nomination as my favourite pop song, although I know some people certainly wouldn't consider it a pop song. However, when making that judgement they are probably bringing preconceptions about the group who recorded it than actually listening to the record. The VU were certainly a pop band (or at least trying to be a pop band) by this point in their career, out of necessity rather than want perhaps, but I think they certainly struck good on this track.



Standing on the corner
suitcase in my hand
Jack is in his corset, Jane is in her vest
and me, I'm in a rock 'n' roll band, huh
Ridin' in a Stutz Bearcat, Jim
you know those were different times
Oh, all the poets they studied rules of verse
and those ladies they rolled their eyes

Sweet Jane, woh
Sweet Jane, oh-oh
Sweet Jane

I'll tell you somethin' that Jack, he is a banker
and Jane, she is a clerk
And both of them save their monies
hah, and when, when they come home from work
Ooohhh-wah, sittin' down by the fire, oh-wah
the radio does play a little classical music there, Jim
"The March Of The Wooden Soldiers", all you protest kids
you can hear Jack say, get ready, ah

Sweet Jane, ah, come on baby
Sweet Jane, oh-oh-oh-ah
Sweet Jane

Some people they like to go out dancing
and other peoples they have to work, just watch me now
And there's even some evil mothers, haha
well they're gonna tell you that everything is just dirt
You know that women never really faint
and that villains always blink their eyes, ooohhh
And that, you know children are the only ones who blush
and that life is just to die

But anyone who ever had a heart
oh, they wouldn't turn around and break it
And anyone who ever played a part
oh, they wouldn't turn around and hate it

Sweet Jane, oh, wow-woh
Sweet Jane
Sweet Jane

Heavenly wine and roses
seem to whisper to her, when he smile, ah
Heavenly wine and roses
seem to whisper to her, hey baby, when he smile

La-la-la-la-la, la-la-la
la-la-la-la-la, la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la, la-la-la
la-la-la-la-la, la-la-la

Sweet Jane, Sweet Jane
Sweet Jane, Sweet Jane
Sweet Jane, Sweet Jane

I challenge anyone to sit through the song without at least humming along. It just can't be done.

[TLK]

Kelly Clarkson - "Since You've Been Gone"

[lock thread now] :)

[Senator]

I actually heard a song on the radio that I have not heard in 20 years. I think it may be the perfect pop song. Or it might be the memory of listening to it with my first serious girlfriend in high school.
Ah! Leah - Donnie Iris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyTu_ZdcBCo

[cuervo72]

Is "Ah! Leah" similar in nature to "Oh Sherry"? ;)

[Kodos]

What about "Pour Some Sugar On Me"? :)

[kurtism]

Seeing this thread pop back up, I have a few additions to the mix:

The Smithereens, "Girl Like You"
Big Star, "When My Baby's Beside Me"
Fountains of Wayne, "Stacy's Mom"
The Wonders, "That Thing You Do" (from the movie)

[cuervo72]

Ohh, I'd forgotten about "Girl Like You". Good one. I've found myself singing to "Stacy's Mom" a few times too...

[QuikSand]

The Smithereens, "Girl Like You"

I really like this submission -- a very good hit on the original idea I was thinking about. I happen to think that the rendition itself was pretty good, too, but lyrically it's a great fit.

[cartman]

I just heard this song, and sad as it might be, this thread immediately came to mind:

Borderline - Madonna

<embed src="http://media.mtvnservices.com/mgid:uma:video:mtv.com:33474" width="512" height="319" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" flashVars="configParams=vid%3D33474%26uri%3Dmgid%3Auma%3Avideo%3Amtv.com%3A33474%26startUri={startUri}" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" base="."></embed><div style="margin:0;text-align:center;width:500px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/madonna/artist.jhtml" style="color:#439CD8;" target="_blank">Madonna</a> - <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/" style="color:#439CD8;" target="_blank">New Music</a> - <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/video/" style="color:#439CD8;" target="_blank">More Music Videos</a></div>

[Ryche]

This Love by Maroon 5 seems like the perfect pop song to me.

[cthomer5000]

Nice bump by whoever. I almost feel like there should be an annual throwback week around here were great threads from the past get revisitied.


I feel like from the past few years I could only think up something like 'Umbrella' by Rihanna to add to the mix.

[path12]

"There She Goes" by the Las... modern pop nirvana (the state of being, not the band)

This is what immediately comes to my mind for a perfect pop song as well.

[cuervo72]

Do Wah Diddy

[cuervo72]

How did this get to page 4 without mentioning the greatest 80's 'pop' band. The Thompson Twins: Hold Me Now needs to be considered, it's pointless, bouncy, lyrically crap, but still pretty inoffensive. And that just about defines pop for me.

I have recently been reappreciating The Thompson Twins. Doctor, Doctor, King for a Day, Lay Your Hands On Me....

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

Then He Kissed Me

Bonus points for being in a great scene in a great movie.

[cuervo72]

Then He Kissed Me

Bonus points for being in a great scene in a great movie.

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5AvMNXBGgpg&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5AvMNXBGgpg&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

Heh, no more like this:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sWYe-Ef3u5M&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sWYe-Ef3u5M&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[QuikSand]

Fun thread. Listening to the Weezer version of "I'm a Believer" reinforces my original stance. It's a flawless song.

[Ramzavail]

PYT MJ

[Subby]

When I think "pop song," I immediately rule out songs that are "too sophisticated" as well. Some of the suggestions above I'd put into that category would be songs by REM and something like the Police's "Every Breath You Take." I think you have to rule out songs with irony or deep messages.

I also tend to rule out songs that are a bit too novelty. A song like "Centerfold" by the J Geils Band fits that category -- great song, just a bit too "fun." As much as I'd like to give the nod to Fozzie's "Walking On Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves -- great song -- it also doesn't quite have the weight either.

I initially thought of two songs when I read Quik's first post -- "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion and "Yesterday" by the Beatles. But despite the pop appeal of those songs, they are a bit too slow for my taste for this discussion.

If I had to pick an artist that would have the perfect pop song, it would be either Madonna or Prince. Sure, both have songs that are too deep ("Like a Prayer") or novelty ("Raspberry Beret"), but I don't know if you could go wrong with a "When Doves Cry" or "Like a Virgin." For less popular artists, I'd go with everyone's favorite Sweedish duo, Roxette. I admit I was a sucker for this group. They had a number of great pop songs, my favorite of which would have to be "Fading Like a Flower."

My two nominees are clearly tainted by my background -- pop music was perfected between 1982 and 1990, or the from the time I discovered "pop music" through high school. My two picks:

"Don't You Want Me?" by the Human League
"Heat of the Moment" by Asia

So great. kcchief goes through this long-winded TL;dr vetting process and settles on HEAT OF THE MOMENT. BY ASIA.

:lol:

[thesloppy]

Got your cable just today
Killed my groove I've got
To sayyaaaaaAAAAAAaaaayyy
Western Union
Doot, da doot, da doot
Doot, da doot, da doot, etc.

[Sweed]

ABBA... SOS

Seeing Agnetha and Frida perform this on American Bandstand (1975) in their short "cat" outfits left quite an impression on this, then teenage American male!

[Izulde]

Candle light and soul forever,
A dream of you and me together,
Say you believe it, say you believe it,
Free your mind of doubt and danger,
Be for real don't be a stranger,
We can achieve it, we can achieve it
Come a little bit closer baby, get it on, get it on,
'Cause tonight is the night when two become one
I need some love like I've never needed love before
(wanna make love to ya baby)
I had a little love, now I'm back for more
(wanna make love to ya baby)
Set your spirit free, it's the only way to be
Silly games that you were playing, empty
Words we both were saying,
Let's work it out boy, let's work it out boy,
Any deal that we endeavour,
Boys and girls feel good together
Take it or leave it,
Take it or leave it
Are you as good as I remember baby, get it on, get it on,
'Cause tonight is the night when two become one
I need some love like I've never needed love before
(wanna make love to ya baby)
I had a little love, now I'm back for more (wanna make love to ya baby)
Set your spirit free, it's the only way to be
Be a little bit wiser baby, put it on, put it on,
'Cause tonight is the night when two become one
I need some love like I've never needed love before
(wanna make love to ya baby)
I had a little love, now I'm back for more (wanna make love to ya baby)
I need some love like I've never needed love before
(wanna make love to ya baby)
I had a little love, now I'm back for more (wanna make love to ya baby)
Set your spirit free, it's the only way to be
It's the only way to be

Best safe sex song ever.

[Toddzilla]

I know it's corny but "I Want To Hold Your Hand" always struck me as the perfect pop song.

[britrock88]

I know it's corny but "I Want To Hold Your Hand" always struck me as the perfect pop song.

I'll take "All My Lovin'" from those same fab four.

[cuervo72]

<---- Prefers "Hard Day's Night." :D

[cuervo72]

The Temptations -- "Can't Get Next to You"

I didn't know any better in 2004, but damn do I love that song (and others from The Temptations) now.

[stevew]

Fight Song is a great modern pop song. Was looking for that other thread where you change the lyrics to a song, cause I sing that shit to my dogs all the time

[ISiddiqui]

Speaking of modern pop songs, "Black Space" by Taylor Swift probably has to be on that list of the perfect pop song (Hell, anything by Swift really).

[korme]

Speaking of modern pop songs, "Black Space" by Taylor Swift probably has to be on that list of the perfect pop song (Hell, anything by Swift really).

Was wondering if she would be brought up

[stevew]

Did anyone mention Bizarre Love Triangle? Cause that song is aces, much like There She Goes.

[stevew]

Generally I'd think less is more in the lyrics when it comes to the perfect pop song. Perhaps a progression of events in the narrative, but let's keep it simple. That's why all the classic songs are so good

[aknott]

As far as modern pop songs, I can't stop listening to "Rollercoaster" by Bleachers.

[nol]

Having a hard time thinking of what I'd list as second after the Jackson 5's I Want You Back.

[QuikSand]

Having a hard time thinking of what I'd list as second after the Jackson 5's I Want You Back.

It's a great single, maybe the best. It does make my list as a great single but not necessarily a great song, but clearly that distinction (as far as this thread goes) got lost a long time ago.

[Maple Leafs]

Interesting article on modern pop songs, and how a couple of bald Norwegian dudes are creating most of today's big hits:
Karl Martin Sandberg, Mikkel Eriksen, Tor Hermansen and Other Songwriters Behind the Hits of Katy Perry and Taylor Swift - The Atlantic (http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2015/10/hit-charade/403192/)

[flere-imsaho]

Speaking of modern pop songs, "Black Space" by Taylor Swift probably has to be on that list of the perfect pop song (Hell, anything by Swift really).

Blank Space.

I'm happy to turn in my man card now, but honestly all of "1989" (except the first track, "Welcome to New York", which is dreck) is catchy, earwormy, perfectly crafted pop. It's always enjoyable to see anyone operating at the top of their game, and that album is exactly that for Swift. And I was not interested in her music prior.

[Grover]

much like There She Goes.

The La's are a fucking gem. That album is still one of my all time favorites.

[stevew]

Blank Space.

I'm happy to turn in my man card now, but honestly all of "1989" (except the first track, "Welcome to New York", which is dreck) is catchy, earwormy, perfectly crafted pop. It's always enjoyable to see anyone operating at the top of their game, and that album is exactly that for Swift. And I was not interested in her music prior.

Ryan Adams nails Welcome to New York on his cover of the album

[Suicane75]

Throwing out a couple of my underrated faves. Marys Prayer by Danny Wilson and I Can Dream About You by Dan Hartman.

[AENeuman]

Scientists say this is the most feel-good song ever written - TODAY.com (http://www.today.com/popculture/scientists-say-most-feel-good-song-ever-written-t45726)

ABBA's "Dancing Queen"
The Beach Boys' "Good Vibrations"

Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl." :lol:

[britrock88]

I know where Quik stands on BJ, but I think Uptown Girl is a gem that people refuse to acknowledge as such.

[cuervo72]

I thought "Walking on Sunshine" (which has probably already been mentioned?) was pretty feel-good.

[frnk55]

ABBA Anything abba.

[QuikSand]

Currently listening to cover after cover of "Because the Night" and persuaded to dig up this old thread. That is one hell of a song.