That Earworm From ’97: Decoding the ‘MMMBop’ Crossword Clue
Okay, confession time. We’ve all been there. You’re staring blankly at a crossword clue, the grid mocking you with its tantalizing gaps. Maybe it’s a particularly cryptic Sunday puzzle, or perhaps just a Wednesday brain-bender that’s hit you at the wrong time. Today, that “wrong time” involves a certain earworm from the late 90s, and the clue hovering above it screams nostalgia (or maybe just mild existential dread).
The clue, of course, refers to a certain…
sound
… generated by a certain…
group
… that dominated the airwaves (and MTV) for a brief, but intensely memorable, period. Think catchy melodies, vibrant harmonies, and a certain youthful exuberance that, depending on your age, either makes you smile wistfully or roll your eyes in utter exasperation.
This particular group, a trio of brothers, burst onto the scene with a song that was both instantly infectious and utterly indecipherable. The chorus, a seemingly nonsensical string of syllables, became their trademark. It was the kind of song that embedded itself in your brain, resurfacing at the most inopportune moments – during important meetings, while attempting to parallel park, or, indeed, while trying to solve a crossword puzzle.
The band, hailing from Tulsa, Oklahoma, quickly rose to international fame, fueled by their undeniable talent and the sheer catchiness of their breakout hit. Their album sold millions, they toured the world, and for a brief moment, they were pop music royalty. They were
everywhere
.
But as with many things in the world of pop, the limelight faded. While they continued to release music and tour, they never quite replicated the phenomenal success of their initial offering. They remained a working band, however, building a dedicated fanbase that appreciates their consistent output and commitment to their craft.
So, what about that maddening crossword clue? Well, it demands you recall the name of that band. A name synonymous with that one unforgettable song. A name that represents a specific era of bubblegum pop. A name that, even now, can elicit a variety of reactions, ranging from fond reminiscence to a desperate plea for silence.
Think back. Think late 90s. Think bright colors and youthful energy. Think three brothers with remarkable vocal harmonies. Think of that song you couldn’t escape, the song that played on every radio station, the song that defined a generation (or at least a very specific moment within that generation).
Think hard. Because that crossword clue isn’t going anywhere until you do. And trust me, the satisfaction of finally filling in those blanks is well worth the effort. It’s a sweet, sweet victory that comes after wrestling with a cultural touchstone of the 90’s. Good luck!
Available Answers:
HANSON.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Tuesday’s Daily By Amie Walker & Amanda Rafkin / Ed. Patti Varol