About the song
In the realm of 1960s pop music, few voices shone as brightly as Shelley Fabares’. With her infectious energy, sugary-sweet vocals, and knack for delivering catchy melodies, Fabares captured the hearts of millions and left an indelible mark on the music scene. Among her many hits, “Make Me Happy” stands out as a timeless classic, a song that continues to evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia to this day.
Released in 1966, “Make Me Happy” was the lead single from Fabares’s album of the same name. The song was written by Fred Karger, Sid Wayne, and Ben Weisman, a trio of songwriting powerhouses who crafted numerous pop hits during the era. “Make Me Happy” perfectly encapsulates the sound of 1960s teen pop, with its upbeat tempo, driving guitar riffs, and irresistible melody.
Fabares’s vocals on “Make Me Happy” are simply delightful. Her voice is full of youthful exuberance and charm, as she effortlessly conveys the song’s message of happiness and carefree love. The lyrics, though simple, are effective, painting a picture of a young girl smitten with a boy and yearning to make him happy.
The song’s impact was immediate and undeniable. “Make Me Happy” soared to number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing Fabares’s status as a teen idol and establishing the song as a pop culture phenomenon. It has since been covered by numerous artists, including Herman’s Hermits, who released their own version of the song in the same year.
Beyond its chart success, “Make Me Happy” has endured as a beloved classic, a song that continues to be enjoyed by generations of listeners. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of youthful love and the simple joys of life. With its infectious melody, charming vocals, and positive message, “Make Me Happy” is a song that is sure to put a smile on your face and make you happy, just as its title suggests.
Additional details:
- Composers: Fred Karger, Sid Wayne, Ben Weisman
- Album: Make Me Happy (1966)
- Billboard Hot 100 peak: #1 (1966)