In the vibrant era of the 80s, funk music pulsed through the mainstream, setting the stage for artists who weren’t afraid to blend groovy beats with deeply felt messages. Among these musical pioneers was Cameo, a group that not only created memorable tunes but also made a cultural impact with their hit “Candy.” Beyond its infectious rhythm and catchy lines, “Candy” carries a story that resonated with a generation—and continues to captivate listeners today. This deep-dive into the meaning of “Candy” will explore how the song’s themes of love, desire, and indulgence reflected the spirit of its time.
The Meaning of “Candy” by Cameo
In the neon glow of the ’80s dancefloor, Cameo’s hit “Candy” emerges that transcends time, wrapping its funky grooves around the very essence of a sweet infatuation. With its irresistible bassline and infectious chorus, the song captures the rapture of finding someone who tantalizes the senses as vividly as candy tempts the taste buds. It’s a melody that weaves itself through the listeners’ memories, immortalizing the fleeting heartbeat skips and sugar rush of fresh love. When the brass section horns in, it’s not just a call to the feet to dance, but a beckoning to the heart to reminisce about those moments of youth and desire. “Candy” by Cameo isn’t just a track—it’s a vibrant, colorful celebration of attraction and the joy that comes with every replay, both in our ears and in our hearts.
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
Yeah, hmm
It’s like candy
I can feel it when you walk
Even when you talk it takes over me
You’re so dandy
I wanna know, can you feel it too
Just like I do? (Just like I do, hoo)
[Chorus]
This stuff is starting now
It’s the same feeling
I always seem to get around you
There’s no mistaking, I’m clearly taken
By the simple mere thought of you (Oh)
[Post-Chorus]
This stuff is starting now (This stuff is starting now)
This stuff is starting now (Oh)
This stuff is starting now (Hoo)
[Verse 2]
My eyes roll in my head
I toss and turn in my bed
In the morning when I think about you
Yes, I do
Simply put, you’re the reason why
Even though I’m real shy (Real shy)
I attempt to look my best for you
Indeed, I do (Just for you)
[Chorus]
‘Cause you affect me, fascinate me
I thank heaven for the things that you do
(For the things that you do)
It’s like candy (Candy), oh
You sure are sweet, sweet (Sweet)
You’re so dandy (Dandy)
You’re taking my appetite, but it’s all right
[Verse 3]
It’s like candy (Candy)
(Ooh, vanilla, oh, chocolate)
Look real nice (Real nice), wrapped up tight
You’re so dandy (Dandy)
(Would you mind if I had a little bit more of your time?)
Giving me a heart attack
It’s the kind I like (Oh)
[Verse 4]
It’s like candy (Candy)
You’re so dandy (Dandy)
What you do (What you do)
[Verse 5]
You’re like a brand new feeling (Feeling)
In a special way
A surprise package
On a bright clear sunny day
You’re so dandy (Dandy)
And wrapped up tight
So good, so good (Yeah)
Strawberry (Strawberry), raspberry (Raspberry)
All those good things
Violets and gumdrops
That’s what you’re saying to me, me (Me, oh)
Sweet candy, candy
It’s like candy (Candy)
Sure seems like good candy to me (Good candy to me), oh, baby (Oh)
You’re so dandy
Just keep doing what you do, baby (Oh, yeah)
(Doing to me, yeah, doing to me)
[Outro]
Oh, babe, babe
(I like) It’s like candy (candy)
You’re so dandy (dandy), oh
Dandy, oh, dandy
You’re like, you’re like, you’re sweet
Verse 1: It’s Like Candy
The Power of Presence
The opening verse sets the stage for the entire song. “It’s like candy. I can feel it when you walk. Even when you talk it takes over me.” These lines emphasize the magnetic presence of the subject. Like candy, their mere presence is enough to captivate and enthrall. The comparison to candy highlights the sweetness and desirability of this person.
The Allure of Confidence
“You’re so dandy. I wanna know, can you feel it too? Just like I do?” Here, the singer wonders if the feeling is mutual. The word “dandy” suggests that the person is not just attractive but also has a certain charm or flair. The singer’s curiosity about mutual feelings adds an element of romantic tension.
The Overwhelming Sensation
This section of the verse conveys an overwhelming feeling that the singer experiences. The sweet allure of the person in question is so strong that it takes over their senses. This sensation is comparable to the rush one feels when indulging in a favorite candy.
Chorus: This Stuff is Starting Now
The Beginning of Something New
“This stuff is starting now. It’s the same feeling I always seem to get around you.” The chorus reinforces the idea that being around this person ignites a familiar but exhilarating sensation. It’s as if every interaction is a new beginning, filled with excitement and anticipation.
Clear Attraction
“There’s no mistaking, I’m clearly taken by the simple mere thought of you.” The singer makes it clear that their attraction is undeniable. The word “taken” implies a sense of being captivated or even possessed by the thought of this person. It’s a powerful declaration of infatuation.
The Simple Pleasure
The phrase “by the simple mere thought of you” suggests that the person’s presence doesn’t need any embellishments to be appealing. Just thinking about them is enough to bring joy, much like how a simple piece of candy can bring immense pleasure.
Post-Chorus Repetition
Emphasizing the Feeling
“This stuff is starting now (This stuff is starting now).” The repetition here serves to emphasize the intensity and immediacy of the feelings described. It’s as if the singer is trying to convince themselves that this is really happening.
Building Anticipation
The repeated lines build anticipation and excitement, mirroring the way one might eagerly look forward to savoring a piece of candy. It creates a sense of urgency and immediacy.
The Hook
This repetitive hook is catchy and memorable, making it easy for listeners to sing along. It’s a crucial element that contributes to the song’s widespread appeal.
Verse 2: Eyes Rolling, Tossing, and Turning
Physical Reactions
“My eyes roll in my head. I toss and turn in my bed.” The singer describes physical reactions to their feelings, highlighting the intensity of their emotions. These reactions are involuntary, much like the body’s response to a sugar rush.
Morning Thoughts
“In the morning when I think about you, yes, I do.” The singer admits that thoughts of this person persist from night to morning. It’s a continuous cycle of longing and anticipation, much like craving candy at different times of the day.
The Reason Why
“Simply put, you’re the reason why.” The singer succinctly states that this person is the cause of their emotional turmoil. It’s a straightforward admission, adding to the song’s honesty and relatability.
Chorus Revisited
Reinforcing the Message
Revisiting the chorus serves to reinforce the central theme of the song. The repeated lines remind listeners of the intense attraction and excitement that the singer feels.
The Sweet Comparison
“It’s like candy (Candy), oh. You sure are sweet, sweet (Sweet).” The comparison to candy is reiterated, emphasizing the sweetness and desirability of the person. The use of “oh” adds a sense of longing and admiration.
Appetite and Approval
“You’re taking my appetite, but it’s all right.” The singer acknowledges that their desire for this person is so strong that it overshadows other needs or desires. Yet, they are perfectly content with this situation.
Verse 3: Nice and Tight
Visual Imagery
“Ooh, vanilla, oh, chocolate. Look real nice (Real nice), wrapped up tight.” These lines use visual imagery to describe the person’s appearance. The comparison to vanilla and chocolate suggests a delightful variety, while “wrapped up tight” implies a polished and well-presented look.
Heart Attack
“Giving me a heart attack. It’s the kind I like (Oh).” The singer likens their intense feelings to a heart attack but clarifies that it’s a pleasurable experience. The use of “oh” adds a playful tone.
Time Spent Together
“Would you mind if I had a little bit more of your time?” The singer expresses a desire to spend more time with this person. It’s a subtle way of showing their deep interest and longing for more interaction.
Verse 4: The Dandy Allure
Consistent Admiration
“It’s like candy (Candy). You’re so dandy (Dandy).” Repeating these lines reinforces the singer’s consistent admiration for the person. The comparison to candy remains central, emphasizing the sweetness and allure.
What You Do
“What you do (What you do).” The singer appreciates not just the person’s appearance but also their actions. It’s a holistic admiration that goes beyond surface-level attraction.
The Enigmatic Charm
The verse captures the enigmatic charm of the person, leaving the listener curious about what exactly they are doing to elicit such admiration. It adds an air of mystery and intrigue.
Verse 5: A Brand New Feeling
Fresh and Exciting
“You’re like a brand new feeling (Feeling) in a special way.” The singer compares the person to a new and exciting sensation. It’s a refreshing change that brings joy and novelty.
Surprise Package
“A surprise package on a bright clear sunny day.” This line evokes the image of receiving an unexpected gift. The person is likened to a delightful surprise that brightens the singer’s day.
Wrapped Up Tight
“You’re so dandy (Dandy) and wrapped up tight.” The recurring description of being “wrapped up tight” emphasizes the person’s polished and appealing appearance. It adds to the sense of admiration and desire.
Strawberry and Raspberry
Flavors of Attraction
“Strawberry (Strawberry), raspberry (Raspberry), all those good things.” The use of fruit flavors to describe the person adds a playful and sensory element. It suggests that the person brings a variety of delightful experiences.
Violets and Gumdrops
“Violets and gumdrops, that’s what you’re saying to me.” The comparison to violets and gumdrops adds a whimsical and nostalgic touch. It conveys a sense of sweetness and charm.
Sweet Candy
“Sweet candy, candy. It’s like candy (Candy).” The repeated mention of candy reinforces the central metaphor of the song. It emphasizes the person’s irresistible allure and sweetness.
Outro: Sweet and Dandy
Consistent Theme
“Oh, babe, babe. (I like) It’s like candy (candy).” The outro maintains the consistent theme of sweetness and admiration. The use of “babe” adds a personal and affectionate touch.
Sweet Adoration
“You’re so dandy (dandy), oh. Dandy, oh, dandy.” The singer’s adoration remains strong, with repeated emphasis on the person’s dandy qualities. It’s a heartfelt expression of admiration.
Closing Note
The outro leaves the listener with a sense of lingering sweetness and admiration. It’s a fitting conclusion to a song that celebrates the allure and charm of the person in question.
The Song That Transcends Time
“Candy” is more than just a track; it’s an experience. From the first notes of the iconic bassline, it’s clear that you’re in for a rhythmic ride. The distinctive sound of the talk box, akin to a robotic voice, further distinguishes the song, elevating it to a timeless status that’s been sampled and celebrated across decades.
Even for those who aren’t initially familiar with the track, its melody is unexpectedly recognizable, sparking grooves and hums that bridge gaps between different musical preferences. But what lies beneath this auditory blanket of funk?
Opulence, Dance, and a Spontaneous Spirit
In the broader context of the 80s, “Candy” encapsulated more than just romantic themes. The decade was a time of bold fashion statements and a cultural spirit that embraced opulence and indulgence. This is profoundly reflected in “Candy,” not only through its lyrics but also through the music video and the band’s stage presence.
The animated music video amplifies the song’s spontaneous energy, showcasing vibrant dance numbers and extravagant settings that underline the theme of celebration. Cameo’s performances, characterized by their flamboyant stage costumes and dynamic dancing, further cemented the track as an anthem for living life to the fullest.
The Sociocultural Wrapper
“Candy” as a Reflection of the ’80s Zeitgeist
The excesses of the ’80s were not just economic or sartorial—they were also sonic. “Candy” reflects the era’s taste for glamour and theatrics, encapsulated in Blackmon’s signature red codpiece and tight rubber attire.
Gender and Image in Funk: Redefining Masculinity
Cameo’s bold fashion choices and androgynous aesthetic were groundbreaking for their time. “Candy” played a significant role in breaking down traditional views of masculinity, paving the way for a more colorful and varied expression of gender in music.
The Origins of “Candy”: From Sanskrit to Modern Sweets
To understand “candy,” we must turn back the pages of etymological history. The word “candy” began its linguistic sojourn in ancient India with the Sanskrit term “khaṇḍa,” initially referring to a type of sugar produced in thickened milk. This sweet substance traveled through the Arab world, where it became “qand,” and eventually found its way to Europe.
In medieval France and Britain, “candy” emerged as a verb, meaning “to crystallize sugar.” By the seventeenth century, this art of crystallizing sugar had turned into a popular pastime, leading to the creation of various forms of delectable treats, which were all affectionately deemed “candy.”
Fast-forward to the present, “candy” continues to sweeten our language, representing a broad category of sweet edibles. From chewy to hard, and from sour to sweet, candies encompass an array of flavors and textures beloved by all ages.
From the Americas to Asia: A World of “Candy”
The notion of “candy” is as diverse as sweets themselves. In North America, “candy” is firmly associated with Halloween treats—chocolates, gummies, and the timeless candy corn—as much as it is tied to Christmas confections like candy canes and caramel turtles. The Americas have also contributed significantly to candy innovation, with the United States as the birthplace of modern versions of classic confections, such as the Hershey’s bar and Tootsie Rolls.
Across the pond in the United Kingdom, the term “candy” gives way to “sweets,” yet it is no less integral to the lexicon of sugar enthusiasts. From English to Dutch, from Swahili to Mandarin, various languages have developed their own terms for “candy,” reflecting the regional tastes and cultural significance of these treats.
In Asian countries like Japan, where craftsmanship meets culinary artistry, traditional “candy” making, known as “amezaiku,” results in intricate, edible sculptures. These cultural sweets are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate, embodying the transcendent power of “candy” as both a food and an art form.
The Art of “Candy” Making: Culinary Creativity in Color
“Candy” is not merely a word; it’s a world of culinary creativity where the artisanal meets the whimsical. Think of candy apples shimmering with a red, glossy finish, or the swirls of color adorning lollipops—a testament to the artistry possible with sugar and imagination.
In the world of craft “candy” making, especially during festive seasons like Easter and Valentine’s Day, the visuals are as important as the taste. It’s here, at the intersection of culinary art and cultural tradition, that the true global language of “candy” is spoken, uniting people through a shared appreciation for sweets that delight the senses and the soul.
The Health and Dietary “Candy” Dilemma
In recent years, the term “candy” has not been without controversy. With growing health concerns and a global obesity crisis, conversations around “candy” have extended to the impact of sugar-laden treats on our diets. The term now carries implications of indulgence, sometimes to the detriment of our health.
Nevertheless, in an age where dietary preferences and restrictions are varied and personal, the term “candy” has also become a touchstone for the small indulgences that make life sweeter. From gourmet, artisanal chocolates to natural fruit gums, the modern candy landscape offers options that appeal to a range of dietary needs and taste preferences.
Marketing “Candy”: When Sweetness Meets Savvy
The confectionery industry is a masterclass in marketing, and “candy” is at the forefront of this commercial artistry. The packaging, the slogans, and the very placement of candies in supermarkets are all designed to trigger that sweet tooth and inspire impulse purchases.
Whether it’s through nostalgic branding that hearkens back to childhood favorites or through innovative flavor combinations that push the boundaries of taste, the marketing of “candy” is an exercise in understanding consumer behavior and tapping into emotional connections with food.
The Role of “Candy” in Popular Culture and Idioms
“Candy” has also permeated the fabric of popular culture, from songs to movies, often serving as a metaphor for all things sweet, desirable, and sometimes unattainable. Think of the hit song “I Want Candy” and the myriad ways in which the term has been used to express longing and desire beyond the realm of actual sweets.
This use in idiomatic expressions underlines the symbolic value of “candy,” further cementing its place in our shared cultural vocabulary. It’s testimony to the enduring appeal of sweetness and all the positive connotations it carries, making “candy” more than just a word, but a sentiment.
The Legacy of “Candy” in the 21st Century
Despite the song being rooted in the past, it continues to find new life in our contemporary world. The timeless appeal of “Candy” has seen it featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, ensuring that its essence remains topical and resonant with different generations. It has also been sampled by a range of artists, from hip-hop to pop, extending its influence across musical genres.
In a world that’s often fraught with complexities, “Candy” stands as a reminder of the simple joys that love and desire can bring. Its popularity endures as a testament to the universal need for music that not only entertains but also uplifts.
Conclusion
“Candy” by Cameo is a timeless classic that uses the metaphor of candy to convey intense feelings of attraction and admiration. The song’s catchy melody, playful lyrics, and sensory imagery make it an enduring favorite. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering it for the first time, “Candy” offers a delightful musical experience that captures the essence of sweet romance.
Exploring the lyrics of “Candy” reveals layers of meaning and emotion, making it clear why this song continues to resonate with listeners. Its universal themes of love, admiration, and longing are expressed in a way that is both relatable and captivating.