On This Day: Twinkle

Twinkle Ripley

Twinkle, whose real name was Lynn Annette Ripley, was a renowned English singer-songwriter who garnered significant acclaim in the 1960s. Born on this day July 15, 1948 in Surbiton, Surrey, Twinkle displayed a natural aptitude for music from a young age. Her unique vocal talent and knack for crafting memorable lyrics propelled her to fame at the tender age of sixteen.

Twinkle’s career rocketed to stardom with her debut single, “Terry,” which she wrote herself. The song, a tragic tale of a biker’s death, instantly resonated with listeners and catapulted Twinkle to the UK top five in 1964, thereby establishing her as one of the youngest female artists to achieve such a feat. Despite its success, “Terry” was also mired in controversy due to its dark subject matter, resulting in it being banned by the BBC. Nevertheless, the stir only served to heighten Twinkle’s popularity.

Throughout her career, Twinkle continued to produce hits like “Golden Lights,” further solidifying her status as a pop sensation. Her music was characterized by a distinctive blend of pop and melancholy, a style that set her apart from her contemporaries.

Despite her early success, Twinkle chose not to pursue a long-term career in music. However, her contribution to the world of pop music left a lasting impression. In later years, she remained a revered figure in the music industry, with her songs covered by artists such as The Smiths and Saint Etienne.

Twinkle was not just a singer; she was a trailblazer who helped shape the landscape of pop music in the 1960s. Her distinct voice and lyrical prowess combined to create unforgettable tunes that continue to captivate listeners even today.

Curated by Jennifer