Sweet: "The Lollipop Man" Single (1969)

The Sweet’s "The Lollipop Man" backed with "Time", was released as a 7-inch vinyl single in the UK by Parlophone Records (catalog number R 5803) on September 5, 1969, as their second single following "Slow Motion" in 1968.

Originally formed in 1968 as Sweetshop in London, UK, by 1969, when they released the single, they were still in their early bubblegum pop phase, before fully embracing the glam rock sound that defined their 1970s hits.

A-Side:

"The Lollipop Man" (2:36): Written by Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood, this track is a catchy, upbeat bubblegum pop song with a repetitive, chant-like rhythm and psychedelic guitar elements.

The song has a deep-voiced “ain’t he sweet” line, possibly by guitarist Frank Torpey, who was later replaced by Andy Scott.

B-Side:

"Time" (2:31): Less documented than the A-side, "Time" fits the band’s early bubblegum style, with a straightforward pop structure. It’s included on compilations like First Recordings 1968-1971.

Reception:

The single didn’t chart significantly and is considered a product of The Sweet’s pre-glam era, before producers Mike Chapman and Nicky Chinn transformed them into superstars with hits like "Blockbuster!" and "Ballroom Blitz." Critics note it lacks the polish of their later work but has charm for its era.

The Sweet in 1969:

Lineup: At this time, The Sweet consisted of Brian Connolly (vocals), Frank Torpey (guitar), Steve Priest (bass), and Mick Tucker (drums). This lineup was still developing its sound, rooted in 1960s beat and bubblegum pop.

Context:

The band was transitioning from their early influences, experimenting with a mix of beat, pop, and slight psychedelic elements. "The Lollipop Man" reflects this, with its schoolyard chant vibe and quirky lyrics.

Sleeve Detail

Label: Cornet International

Country: Germany

Catalogue: 5020

Date: 1969

They were regulars on radio shows, including a 1969 Radio One Club performance of the song

Evolution:

After modest success with early singles, The Sweet signed with RCA Records in 1971 and, under Chinn and Chapman’s guidance, adopted a glam rock style, leading to hits like "Co-Co," "Little Willy," and "Wig-Wam Bam." Their early Parlophone singles, including "The Lollipop Man," are now seen as collector’s items, with vinyl copies being rare.

Availability:

The single is hard to find and not widely available on streaming platforms, though "The Lollipop Man" can be streamed on Spotify.

It’s included on compilations like First Recordings 1968-1971 (Repertoire Records).

Vinyl copies, including a limited-edition blue vinyl German release or UK numbered editions, are sought after by collectors.

Sleeve Detail

Label: Cornet International

Country: Germany

Catalogue: 5020

Date: 1996

Details: Limited edition repress black and blue vinyl

Cultural Note:

The term "lollipop man" refers to a UK crossing guard, often seen with a circular stop sign (resembling a lollipop). The song’s playful tone aligns with 1960s pop trends, though its suggestive lyrics hint at the cheeky edge The Sweet later amplified in their glam era.

Sleeve Detail

Label: In a Spin Vinyl

Country: Spain

Catalogue: 5020

Date: 2025