“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Puppet On A String” is a song performed by British singer Sandie Shaw, which achieved fame as the winning entry for the United Kingdom in the 1967 Eurovision Song Contest. This lively and catchy tune became synonymous with Shaw, propelling her to international fame. Not only did it top the charts in several countries, but it also marked a significant moment in Eurovision history, being the first winning entry for the United Kingdom. Its upbeat melody and infectious rhythm made it a quintessential piece of the 1960s pop music landscape.
About The Composition
- Title: Puppet On A String (1967)
- Composer: Bill Martin and Phil Coulter
- Premiere Date: March 1967
- Album/Opus/Collection: Sandie Shaw’s Puppet on a String
- Genre: Pop
Background
“Puppet On A String” was selected as the UK entry for the 1967 Eurovision Song Contest, held in Vienna. Sandie Shaw, despite her initial dislike for the song, delivered a captivating performance that secured her victory. Written by the successful songwriting duo Bill Martin and Phil Coulter, the song was notable for its upbeat tempo and lively arrangement, which contrasted with Shaw’s more typical repertoire. The victory was not just a personal achievement for Shaw but also a significant national triumph, marking the UK’s first win in the competition’s history.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Puppet On A String” is characterized by its upbeat and cheerful pop sensibility, featuring a brisk tempo and a vibrant orchestral arrangement. The song incorporates elements of traditional pop with catchy hooks and a sing-along chorus that captures the spirit of the 1960s pop scene. The arrangement includes brass and string sections that add to its lively and buoyant feel, making it an enduring Eurovision classic.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Puppet On A String” revolve around themes of love and emotional vulnerability. The song uses the metaphor of being a “puppet on a string” to describe the feelings of being controlled and manipulated in a romantic relationship. This relatable theme, combined with the song’s catchy melody, contributed to its widespread appeal and enduring popularity.
Performance History
Following its debut at the Eurovision Song Contest, “Puppet On A String” was performed by Sandie Shaw across various platforms, including television appearances and live concerts. Shaw’s performance at Eurovision was particularly memorable for her choice to perform barefoot, which became one of her trademarks. Over the decades, the song has been covered by numerous artists and remains a staple in Eurovision retrospectives and pop music compilations.
Cultural Impact
“Puppet On A String” had a significant cultural impact, both in the UK and internationally. It topped the charts in several countries and remains one of the most recognizable Eurovision songs. The song’s success helped to solidify Eurovision’s reputation as a platform for launching international hits. Its catchy melody and memorable performance have been referenced and parodied in various media over the years, ensuring its place in pop culture history.
Legacy
Today, “Puppet On A String” is regarded as a classic Eurovision entry and a highlight of Sandie Shaw’s career. Its success paved the way for future UK entries and set a high standard for subsequent Eurovision performances. The song’s enduring popularity is reflected in its continued presence in music compilations and its influence on later pop music. Shaw’s performance remains an iconic moment in Eurovision’s history, inspiring artists and entertaining audiences even decades after its release.
Conclusion
“Puppet On A String” remains a testament to the power of catchy pop music and its ability to transcend time and cultural boundaries. Its success at Eurovision and its continued popularity highlight its significance in the musical landscape of the 1960s. I encourage you to explore Sandie Shaw’s broader discography and the fascinating history of the Eurovision Song Contest to gain a deeper appreciation for this iconic piece.
Video
Lyrics
I wonder if one day that, you’ll say that, you care
If you say you love me madly, I’ll gladly
Be there
Like a puppet on a string
Love is just like a merry-go-round
With all the fun of a fair
One day I’m feeling down on the ground
Then I’m up in the air
Are you leading me on?
Tomorrow will you be gone?
I wonder if one day that, you’ll say that, you care
If you say you love me madly, I’ll gladly, be there
Like a puppet on a string
I may win on the roundabout
Then I’ll lose on the swings
In or out, there is never a doubt
Just who’s pulling the strings
I’m all tied up in you
But where’s it leading me to?
I wonder if one day that, you’ll say that, you care
If you say you love me madly, I’ll gladly, be there
Like a puppet on a string
I wonder if one day that, you’ll say that, you care
If you say you love me madly, I’ll gladly, be there
Like a puppet on a string
Like a puppet on a…
String