About the song
“Stupid Cupid,” a catchy and upbeat song penned by Howard Greenfield and Neil Sedaka, became a defining hit for Connie Francis in 1958. This song marked a pivotal moment in Francis’s career, showcasing her ability to bounce back from a string of less successful releases. Before “Stupid Cupid,” Francis had struggled with a few underwhelming singles, including “I’m Sorry I Made You Cry” and “Heartaches.” However, her determination to secure a hit led her to explore new musical avenues.
The story of “Stupid Cupid” is as lively as its melody. After nearly three years of career stagnation, Francis found herself in a crucial situation where a successful third single was imperative. The turning point came when Don Kirshner from Aldon Music, recognizing her need for a fresh sound, arranged for songwriters Howard Greenfield and Neil Sedaka to present their material. Despite their initial reservations, Greenfield and Sedaka showcased “Stupid Cupid,” a song they had initially intended for the Shepherd Sisters.
Francis’s reaction to the song was immediate and enthusiastic. As soon as she heard the lively tune, she jumped at the opportunity, declaring it as her next hit. The recording took place on June 18, 1958, at Metropolitan Studio in New York City. The session, produced by Morty Kraft with LeRoy Holmes conducting, featured an uncredited but notable bass guitar riff, which has since been celebrated as one of early rock and roll’s standout elements.
“Stupid Cupid” achieved a significant milestone by reaching #14 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1958. While it didn’t propel Francis back into the Top 10 in the U.S. immediately, it marked a crucial comeback. In contrast, the song experienced even greater success in the UK, where it spent six weeks at number one, accompanied by its B-side, “Carolina Moon.” This success in the UK helped solidify Francis’s reputation as a major musical force across the Atlantic.
The song’s influence extended beyond its initial release. Neil Sedaka recorded his own version in 1959, and various artists over the decades, including Patsy Cline, Queen, and Mandy Moore, have covered or featured it in their work. “Stupid Cupid” has also appeared in numerous adaptations and performances, from Korean musicals to video game soundtracks, underscoring its lasting appeal.
Overall, “Stupid Cupid” represents a vibrant chapter in Connie Francis’s career, illustrating her resilience and ability to captivate audiences with a fun and infectious tune.
Video
Lyrics
Stupid Cupid you’re a real mean guy
I’d like to clip your wings so you can’t fly
I’m in love and it’s a crying shame
And I know that you’re the one to blame
Hey hey, set me free
Stupid Cupid stop picking on me
I can’t do my homework and I can’t think straight
I meet her every morning ’bout half past eight
I’m acting like a lovesick fool
You’ve even got me carrying your books to school
Hey hey, set me free
Stupid Cupid stop picking on me
You mixed me up for good right from the very start
Hey now, go play Robin Hood with somebody else’s heart
You got me jumping like a crazy clown
And I don’t feature what you’re putting down
Well since I kissed her loving lips of wine
The thing that bothers me is that I like it fine
Hey hey, set me free
Stupid Cupid stop picking on me
You got me jumping like a crazy clown
And I don’t feature what you’re putting down
Well since I kissed his loving lips of wine
The thing that bothers me is that I like it fine
Hey hey, set me free
Stupid Cupid stop picking on me
Hey hey, set me free
Stupid Cupid stop picking on me