Beyond The Beat: 5 Shocking Secrets Hidden In The 'Candy By Cameo' Lyrics

Released in 1986, Cameo’s iconic track "Candy" has transcended its status as a simple funk and R&B hit, evolving into a cultural phenomenon. As of late 2025, the song continues to be a staple at celebrations and community events, its instantly recognizable bassline and smooth vocals setting the stage for one of the most beloved social dances in history: the Electric Slide.

This article dives deep into the complete, verified lyrics, the controversial, hidden meaning that shocked fans, and the enduring legacy of the track. From its roots on the groundbreaking *Word Up!* album to its unexpected role in modern social movements, here is everything you need to know about the song that is so much more than just a sweet treat.

The Architect of Funk: Larry Blackmon's Biography and Profile

The driving force behind Cameo and the primary creative mind behind "Candy" is the legendary Larry Blackmon. His unique vision, distinctive vocals, and innovative production techniques defined the sound of 1980s funk and soul.

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• Full Name: Larry Ernest Blackmon (sometimes Lawrence Ernest Blackmon)
• Date of Birth: May 24, 1956 (some sources cite May 29, 1956)
• Role in Cameo: Founder, Lead Singer, Drummer, and Primary Producer.
• Band Formation: Blackmon founded the group in 1974 in New York City. It was initially a 14-member ensemble known as the New York City Players.
• Key Label/Studio: He established his own record label, Atlanta Artists, after the group moved from New York to Atlanta, Georgia, in 1982.
• Signature Sound: Known for his signature "Blackmon-speak" vocal style and the use of the LinnDrum machine, which gives many Cameo tracks their distinct, punchy sound.
• Album Era: He produced and co-wrote "Candy" for the 1986 album *Word Up!*, which became one of the band's biggest commercial successes.

The Complete, Verified 'Candy' Lyrics

Co-written by Larry Blackmon and Tomi Jenkins, "Candy" was released as the second single from the *Word Up!* album in 1986. The song is a masterclass in smooth, sophisticated funk, anchored by a deep bass groove and the iconic, soaring saxophone solo by Michael Brecker.

The following are the complete, verified lyrics for "Candy" by Cameo:

(Verse 1)
It's like candy, I can feel it when you walk
Even when you talk it takes over me
You're so dandy, I wanna know
Can you feel it too, just like I do? Hoo!

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(Chorus)
By the simple mere thought of you, oh
This stuff is starting now, hoo
It's like candy, dandy, ooh, vanilla
I wanna know, can you feel it too, just like I do?

(Verse 2)
You're so tender, I can feel it when you walk
Even when you talk it takes over me
You're so dandy, I wanna know
Can you feel it too, just like I do?

(Chorus)
By the simple mere thought of you, oh
This stuff is starting now, hoo
It's like candy, dandy, ooh, vanilla
I wanna know, can you feel it too, just like I do?

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(Bridge)
I wanna know how you feel, I wanna know if it's real
This stuff is starting now, hoo
I wanna know how you feel, I wanna know if it's real
This stuff is starting now, hoo

(Saxophone Solo - Michael Brecker)

(Verse 3)
It's a bright, clear, sunny day
You look real nice wrapped up in a bow
It's so tender, tender, I wanna know
Can you feel it too, just like I do?

(Chorus)
By the simple mere thought of you, oh
This stuff is starting now, hoo
It's like candy, dandy, ooh, vanilla
I wanna know, can you feel it too, just like I do?

(Outro)
I wanna know, I wanna know, I wanna know, I wanna know
Can you feel it too, just like I do?

The Controversial Double-Entendre and Hidden Meaning

For decades, "Candy" has been enjoyed as a straightforward love song, comparing the sweetness of a romantic partner to a delicious treat. However, a deeper, more controversial interpretation of the lyrics has circulated among fans and critics, suggesting a darker subtext.

The "Cocaine" Interpretation

Many believe the song uses "candy" as a euphemism for cocaine. This interpretation is supported by several lyrical clues that take on a shocking new meaning when viewed through this lens:

• "This stuff is starting now, hoo": This line could be interpreted as the onset of a drug's effect, rather than the beginning of a romantic feeling.
• "You're so dandy": In the 1980s, the term "dandy" was sometimes used in slang context, adding a layer of ambiguity.
• "It's like candy... ooh, vanilla": The reference to "vanilla" is sometimes linked to different forms or cuts of the drug.

While Larry Blackmon has never officially confirmed this interpretation, the ambiguity fits the edgy, post-disco funk landscape of the mid-80s, where veiled references to controversial topics were not uncommon in music. This dual nature is part of what makes the song so compelling and enduringly popular.

'Candy's' Unstoppable Cultural and Topical Authority

Far beyond its chart performance, "Candy" has secured its place in cultural history, particularly within the African American community, where it has evolved into a social and political anthem.

The Electric Slide and the Protest Dance

The most significant aspect of "Candy's" legacy is its inseparable link to the "Electric Slide" (or "Electric Boogie"). Though the dance was originally choreographed to Marcia Griffiths' "Electric Boogie," the slower, smoother rhythm of "Candy" became the preferred soundtrack for the dance at countless weddings, family reunions, and parties.

More recently, "Candy" and the Electric Slide have taken on a surprising new life. The *Guardian* and other media outlets have noted the dance being performed at social justice gatherings, with the song affectionately dubbed the "Black Lives Matter protest dance." This recontextualization highlights the song's power to bring people together in joyous, communal solidarity, even during moments of political tension.

Modern Resurgence and Media Use

The song's relevance remains fresh, proving its topical authority in the current media landscape:

• 2024 Remasters: The track continues to be remastered and re-released, with "Benevolent Remaster" versions appearing on YouTube, indicating a sustained public demand for high-quality audio of the classic.
• Sampling and Influence: The distinctive drum machine beat and smooth bassline have been sampled and referenced by contemporary artists across R&B and Hip-Hop, cementing its status as a foundational funk track.
• Television and Film: "Candy" has been consistently used in various media, including the Javone Prince’s sketch show, ensuring it reaches new generations who may be unfamiliar with the original 1986 release.

From a controversial double-entendre to a symbol of communal joy, the "Candy by Cameo" lyrics and its accompanying music have secured a permanent, evolving place in global pop culture.