A Whimsical Romp Through the Early Seventies Charts
Funny Funny by Sweet, a delightful slice of bubblegum pop with a slightly mischievous wink, captured the hearts of many when it first graced the charts. Released in early 1973, this infectious single quickly climbed the UK Singles Chart, peaking at an impressive number thirteen. While it didn’t reach the dizzying heights of some of their later, more hard-rocking anthems, Funny Funny nonetheless solidified Sweet‘s presence as a purveyor of catchy and memorable tunes, bridging the gap between their earlier, more overtly pop sensibilities and the glam-rock swagger that would soon define them.
The story behind Funny Funny is rather straightforward, much like the uncomplicated joy the song itself exudes. Penned by the prolific songwriting duo of Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman, the masterminds behind many of Sweet‘s early hits, the track was specifically crafted to appeal to a broad audience. Chinn and Chapman had a knack for tapping into the zeitgeist, understanding the popular musical tastes of the moment, and delivering songs that were both commercially successful and undeniably catchy. Funny Funny was no exception. It was designed to be lighthearted and fun, a perfect antidote to any lingering blues, and its immediate chart success proved their formula once again held considerable sway.
Lyrically, Funny Funny paints a picture of budding romance, viewed through a lens of playful uncertainty and endearing awkwardness. The narrator finds himself smitten, utterly charmed by the actions and words of the object of his affection. Phrases like “You make me laugh right out loud” and “You got me doing things I shouldn’t do” speak to the disarming and slightly chaotic nature of new love. It’s a feeling many of us can recall, that giddy sensation of being swept off our feet by someone who makes the ordinary feel extraordinary. The “funny funny” refrain itself encapsulates this blend of amusement and affection, suggesting a relationship that is perhaps a little unconventional but undeniably delightful. It’s the kind of love that doesn’t take itself too seriously, built on shared laughter and genuine connection.
While Funny Funny might not be considered one of Sweet‘s most musically complex offerings, its charm lies in its simplicity and its undeniable hook. The bright, upbeat melody, coupled with the band’s energetic performance, makes it an instantly memorable track. The harmonies, a signature element of Sweet‘s sound, are particularly effective here, adding a layer of sweetness (pun intended!) to the overall feel. The song perfectly captures the buoyant spirit of early 1970s pop, a time when catchy tunes and lighthearted themes often reigned supreme on the airwaves. It’s a sonic snapshot of a more innocent era, a time when a simple, well-crafted pop song could bring a genuine smile to your face.
Funny Funny appeared on Sweet‘s second studio album, Sweet Fanny Adams, released in 1974. However, the single predates the album by over a year, a common practice in those days where successful singles were often later included on full-length releases. While Sweet Fanny Adams showcased a more hard-rocking side of the band, tracks like Funny Funny serve as a reminder of their earlier pop roots and their versatility as musicians. They were a band that could deliver both the sugary sweetness of a chart-topping single and the guitar-driven energy of a rock anthem, a duality that contributed to their enduring appeal.
Listening to Funny Funny today evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when music often felt a little less complicated, a little more carefree. It’s a reminder of youthful crushes, of the simple joy of a catchy melody, and of the enduring power of a well-crafted pop song to lift our spirits. It’s a tune that, even after all these years, can still bring a smile to your face and perhaps even have you tapping your feet along to its infectious rhythm. It stands as a testament to Sweet‘s ability to create music that was both commercially successful and genuinely enjoyable, a little piece of pop perfection from a bygone era.