Lollies: The Power Pop Pioneers of Australian Rock

Lollies were an Australian power pop and rock band that emerged from the vibrant Sydney music scene of the mid-1970s. The group is best remembered for their energetic live performances and a string of catchy, guitar-driven singles that captured the spirit of the era, most notably their 1979 Top 40 hit "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me".

Early career

Formed in Sydney in 1975, the original lineup consisted of John "J.J." Hackett on vocals, John "Swanee" Swan on guitar, John "J.C." Collins on bass, and John "J.B." Bardin on drums. The band quickly built a formidable reputation on the thriving pub circuit, sharing stages with fellow rising acts. Their raw, energetic sound, blending British glam rock influences with straightforward rock and roll, led to their signing with the independent label Wizard Records in 1977.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough arrived in 1979 following a move to the larger Mercury Records. Their single "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me," a perfect slice of power pop, became a national smash. The song climbed into the Australian Top 40, peaking at number 32, and propelled sales of their debut album, simply titled Lollies, which was released that same year to solid commercial response.

Key tracks

I'm Gonna Make You Love Me — This 1979 single is the band's signature song and highest-charting hit, defining their infectious power pop sound.

Bitch — A driving rock track that became a staple of their explosive live set and a fan favorite from their debut album.

Don't Say You Love Me — Another strong single showcasing their knack for melodic hooks and tight, guitar-centric arrangements.

Teenage Rampage — A cover of the Sweet classic that highlighted the band's glam rock influences and became a concert highlight.

Following their initial success, Lollies continued to tour extensively and released a second album, Come and Get It, in 1980. Despite a loyal following, internal pressures and shifting musical trends led to the band's dissolution in 1981. Their music has endured, however, finding new audiences through compilation albums and retrospectives on Australian rock history.

Fans of Lollies' brand of catchy, guitar-powered rock should also explore other seminal Australian acts of the period. Radio Birdman shared a similar raw, energetic intensity on stage. The Sports offered a more pub-rock oriented take on catchy, melodic songwriting. The Choirboys later carried forward a similar hard-edged rock spirit in the Australian mainstream.

The music of Lollies maintains a steady presence on radio, particularly on stations dedicated to classic rock formats and Australian music heritage. Their hits are regularly featured on programs highlighting the golden age of Aussie pub rock, ensuring their punchy anthems continue to reach both nostalgic and new listeners across various rock radio streams.

Listeners can discover the classic power pop sound of Lollies on radio stations featured on our website. Tune in to the rock stations available on onairium.com to hear "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me" and other essential tracks from this foundational Australian band.