Who Sings "You Dropped a Bomb on Me"?
The song "You Dropped a Bomb on Me" is a classic hit that has been stuck in the minds of many music lovers for decades. But who is the artist behind this iconic tune? In this article, we’ll dive into the history of the song and reveal the answer to this question.
The Background
"You Dropped a Bomb on Me" is a funk and soul song written and recorded by the American R&B band The Gap Band in 1982. The song was released as the lead single from their album "Vice" and became a huge commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The Band
The Gap Band was formed in 1967 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by three brothers: Charlie, Ronnie, and Robert Wilson. The band started out as a gospel group, but soon transitioned to playing R&B and funk music. They were known for their energetic live performances and catchy, danceable songs.
The Song
"You Dropped a Bomb on Me" is a standout track in The Gap Band’s discography. The song features a distinctive bassline, courtesy of Robert Wilson, and a memorable chorus with Charlie Wilson‘s soulful vocals. The lyrics describe a romantic relationship that has gone sour, with the title phrase "You dropped a bomb on me" referring to the devastating effect the breakup has had on the singer.
The Success
The song was a massive hit, reaching #6 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and #1 on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It also became a hit internationally, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia.
The Legacy
"You Dropped a Bomb on Me" has become a classic of 80s funk and soul music, and its influence can be heard in many subsequent genres, including hip-hop and electronic music. The song has been sampled and covered by numerous artists, including Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Kanye West.
Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about "You Dropped a Bomb on Me":
- The song was written by the Wilson brothers, along with Glen Barard, who also produced the track.
- The song’s distinctive bassline was played by Robert Wilson, who was known for his innovative and influential bass playing style.
- The song’s music video, which features the band performing the song in a dimly lit nightclub, was a staple of MTV in the early 1980s.
- "You Dropped a Bomb on Me" has been certified Gold by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) for sales of over 500,000 copies.
Table: Chart Performance
| Chart | Peak Position |
|---|---|
| US Billboard Hot 100 | 6 |
| US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs | 1 |
| UK Singles Chart | 7 |
| Canadian Singles Chart | 5 |
| Australian Singles Chart | 9 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, "You Dropped a Bomb on Me" is a classic funk and soul song written and recorded by The Gap Band in 1982. The song’s success can be attributed to its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and the band’s energetic live performances. The song has become a staple of 80s music and its influence can be heard in many subsequent genres.
