On this day: June 22 – “My Sharona” by The Knack Released

🌟 Artist Highlight: The Knack

The Knack, formed in 1978 in Los Angeles, California, burst onto the music scene with their infectious blend of power pop and garage rock. The band members—lead vocalist Doug Fieger, guitarist Berton Averre, bassist Prescott Niles, and drummer Bruce Gary—captured the essence of late-’70s music with their energetic sound and catchy hooks. With a style reminiscent of the Beatles and the punk-infused sound of their era, The Knack quickly gained traction, poised to become a major player in the music industry. However, their journey would take unexpected turns, leading them to be remembered primarily for one iconic song.

📅 What Happened

On June 22, 1979, “My Sharona” was released as the lead single from The Knack’s debut album, *Get the Knack*. The song quickly skyrocketed to the top of the charts, becoming the fastest-selling debut single for Capitol Records since The Beatles. Its raw, garage-rock sound and infectious riff captured listeners’ attention, propelling it to number one on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for six weeks. “My Sharona” not only defined The Knack’s early success but also marked a significant moment in the power pop genre.

💡 Why It Matters

“My Sharona” holds a unique place in music history, serving as a touchstone for the power pop movement of the late 1970s. The song’s catchy melody and straightforward lyrics resonated with audiences, leading to its status as a quintessential summer anthem. Despite achieving massive commercial success, The Knack became emblematic of the one-hit wonder phenomenon. The band struggled to replicate the success of “My Sharona,” leading to their fading presence in mainstream music. Yet, the song’s legacy continued to thrive, making it a cultural mainstay that endures in various forms of media, including films and commercials.

The song has been featured in films like *Reality Bites* and *Grosse Pointe Blank*, showcasing its lasting appeal. Additionally, “My Sharona” has been parodied by “Weird Al” Yankovic in the song “My Bologna,” which further cemented its spot in pop culture. Recently, it has experienced a resurgence on platforms like TikTok, where users have adapted the song to fit modern trends, proving that its catchy riff remains relevant even decades later.

🤔 Did You Know?

The title character of “My Sharona” is based on Sharona Alperin, who was Doug Fieger’s girlfriend at the time. Her influence on the song has made her a trivia footnote in music history, and she has often been asked about her experience with the song and its surprising cultural impact over the years. Although The Knack may have faded from the spotlight, “My Sharona” continues to live on, a testament to the enduring power of a catchy tune.

🎧 Suggested Listening