Build Me Up Buttercup

Introduction – “Build Me Up Buttercup” 

Music has a unique way of resonating with people’s emotions, capturing moments in time, and echoing through different generations.

Each song brings a relatable topic to the table, and “Build Me Up Buttercup” is a perfect example of this.

Released by The Foundations in 1968, this iconic and catchy tune has become a significant part of pop music history. Even today, it continues to evoke strong feelings and is widely loved and played.

About “The Foundations”

The Foundations were a British pop group formed in 1967. The group was originally made up of a mix of 8 musicians from various ages, ethnicities, and musical backgrounds. (Fun fact: The oldest member of the band, Mike Elliott, was 38, while the youngest, Tim Harris, was only 18 at the time the band was formed!)

Members of the original line-up:

1. Clem Curtis – Lead vocals

2. Mike Elliott – Guitar

3. Alan Warner – Bass guitar

4. Tony Gomez – Drums

5. Peter MacBeth – Keyboards

6. Eric Allandale – Trumpet

7. Pat Burke – Tenor saxophone

8. Tim Harris – Trombone

(The members during the production of the song were Colin Young, Alan Warner, Peter Macbeth, Tim Harris, Tony Gomez, Mike Elliott, Eric Allandale and Mike d’Abo)

The Foundations’ incredible ability to blend genres like pop, soul, and a hint of reggae made them stand out from other music groups at the time. “Build Me Up Buttercup” was one of the band’s greatest successes, and it remains their most recognized hit, even though they had other releases in the UK and abroad.

About The Song

“Build Me Up Buttercup” was written by Tony Macaulay and Mike d’Abo, and released by The Foundations in 1968.

The song tells the story of someone who feels emotionally strung along by a romantic interest- constantly built up with hope, only to be let down again and again.

Despite its upbeat, cheerful melody, the lyrics express frustration, vulnerability, and longing.

The title uses the affectionate nickname “Buttercup” to address the person causing this emotional rollercoaster. While “build me up” isn’t a common phrase outside the song, the combination creates a catchy and memorable hook that helped make the track a lasting pop anthem.

Lyrics

Notable Cover 

The Goops (1995)- Their rendition is probably the most recognized modern cover, thanks to its appearance in the closing credits of the film “Mallrats” (1995). While it keeps the upbeat vibe of the original, The Goops gave it a grungier, punk-pop edge.

Build Me Up… Everywhere – The Song’s Lasting Legacy

“Build Me Up Buttercup” has remained a pop culture favorite for decades. It famously played during the credits of the film “There’s Something About Mary” (1998), and also appeared in shows like “Alias”, “Elementary”, and “Fuller House”. More recently, it featured in the Netflix film “The Kissing Booth 2” (2020) and in a series of fun GEICO commercials, introducing it to a new generation of fans.

The song also has a life beyond the screen- it’s a sing along tradition at Wisconsin Badgers soccer games and was once a regular part of the Los Angeles Angels baseball games.

Charts

In early 1969, the song hit No. 1 on the Cash Box Top 100 and climbed to No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100, becoming an instant favorite.

It also found success in the UK, reaching No. 2 in the charts for two weeks.

The song’s popularity was undeniable, earning a gold certification from the RIAA after selling over a million copies in the United States.

My Personal Take 

Despite its somewhat melancholic lyrics and message, “Build Me Up Buttercup” has always been one of those songs that brings a smile to my face, no matter how many times I hear it. To me, it’s a perfect blend of catchy melody and emotional vulnerability, which is why it continues to connect with people of all ages.

As I like to see it, it’s not just a song about disappointment from a loved one, but a reminder that no matter how many times life lets us down, there’s always room for joy, laughter, and a good sing-along.