In the vibrant musical landscape of the 1960s, it’s easy to remember the rock and roll legends like the Beatles and Bob Dylan. However, amidst the era-defining hits, there was another genre reigning supreme: bubblegum music. Bubblegum songs, as their name suggests, were fun, catchy tunes that dominated the charts alongside rock and roll. While some of these songs are still fondly remembered today, others have faded into obscurity, like “Yummy Yummy Yummy” by the Ohio Express.
The Ohio Express unexpectedly found themselves with a hit on their hands when “Yummy Yummy Yummy” reached number four on the Hot 100 in June 1968. Ironically, it surpassed iconic tracks like Aretha Franklin’s “Think” and the Rascals’ “A Beautiful Morning.” Despite its commercial success, Rolling Stone notoriously declared the song to be “absolutely terrible.”
Interestingly, the same songwriter behind “Yummy Yummy Yummy,” Joey Levine, also penned hits like “Under The Boardwalk” and “Good Lovin’.” The Ohio Express, who were not entirely pleased with the release of the song, found themselves with their biggest hit thanks to the infectious melody of “Yummy Yummy Yummy.”
The rise of bubblegum music may be a thing of the past, but the industry still holds onto quirks and surprises. In an era where polished productions reign supreme, the success of a simple, fun tune like “Yummy Yummy Yummy” serves as a reminder that sometimes, simplicity is key in the ever-evolving world of music.
The unexpected success of “Yummy Yummy Yummy” showcases how even the most unassuming songs can capture the hearts of listeners. In a world filled with complex compositions and production, the timeless appeal of a catchy melody like this one proves that music truly knows no bounds.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.