Fifty-six years ago, the beloved ’70s vocal family band The Osmonds released “One Bad Apple,” a song that went on to top the Billboard Hot 100 with a lead singer who was only 17 years old.
Released on November 14, 1970, as the lead single from their self-titled studio album, “One Bad Apple” became a massive hit. Two months after its arrival, it entered the Hot 100, climbing up the chart until it hit No. 1 on February 13, 1971 for a staggering five week reign. The song marked their first major mainstream breakthrough as a band, becoming the most notable single of their career.
Aside from chart success, the song also achieved major commercial triumph. In February 1971, it was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 1 million copies in the U.S. The track’s ability to move substantial audiences solidified the group as up-and-coming superstars.
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Creating “One Bad Apple”
The Osmonds recorded “One Bad Apple” when they were all very young. At the time, lead singer Merrill was only 17 years old, with younger brother Donny preforming background vocals at 13—making its success all the more impressive. The group’s youthful energy channeled inspiration from the wildly popular Jackson 5, who at the time had already topped the Billboard Hot 100 four times.
“One Bad Apple” is all about second chances. Throughout the song, the young narrator desperately attempts to convince his lover that one bad experience shouldn’t taint their whole dynamic, begging for a second opportunity to prove himself. Pulling from soft-rock influences and a groovy Motown sound with its crisp electric guitar work and bouncy harmonies, the No. 1 hit created a charming adolescent atmosphere that won over the hearts of wide-ranging audiences.
Over five decades after its release, the chart-topping single remains popular among its core audience. The track has persevered into modern culture through streaming platforms. On Spotify, “Bad Apple” has garnered nearly 4 million streams, continuing its relevance into the digital era long after the early ’70s.
Related: 1976 Rock Classic, With 19-Year-Old Singer, Was a No. 1 Hit 50 Years Ago Today
