Sex and Candy Song Lyrics — History, Facts & Meaning
Updated September 06, 2025
Disclaimer: SexAndCandy.com is not affiliated with Marcy Playground or their label. This article is for newsworthy commentary and educational purposes only.
Quick Facts
- Artist: Marcy Playground
- Writer: John Wozniak
- Album: Marcy Playground (self-titled)
- Release year: 1997
- Length: ~2:52
- Chart highlights: #1 on Billboard Modern Rock (15 weeks, then-record); #8 on the Billboard Hot 100
What is “Sex and Candy” about?
Frontman John Wozniak has said the title came from someone remarking that a room smelled like “sex and candy.” The song’s images are deliberately surreal and tongue-in-cheek — a hazy, post-grunge snapshot of lust, youth, and self-conscious cool.
Lyrics (brief excerpts & commentary)
We don’t reproduce full lyrics here. Below are short excerpts for commentary under fair-use, followed by analysis. For the complete, licensed lyrics, check an official lyric site.
I smell sex and candy
The famous refrain captures the track’s playful, sensual mood in just five words.
double cherry pie
A confectionary image that keeps the tone sweet rather than explicit.
disco lemonade
Another whimsical, era-tinged phrase that adds to the dreamy vibe.
Backstory & meaning
Wozniak reportedly wrote the song in the early ’90s after that “sex and candy” comment stuck in his head. Rather than a straightforward love song, he leaned into odd, disco-flavored imagery to keep it off-kilter and memorable.
Release, reception & legacy
Released in 1997 on the band’s self-titled debut, the single became a breakout hit — spending a then-record 15 weeks atop Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks and crossing over to No. 8 on the Hot 100. It remains a staple of ’90s playlists and has been covered by modern acts (e.g., Maroon 5). The video’s surreal imagery further cemented its cult status.
Are the band and the site related?
No. Our site’s name echoes the song title, but there is no association. We write about romance, dating, and indulgent lifestyle picks — see our Dating Guides and Sweet Indulgences.
FAQ
Who sings “Sex and Candy”?
Marcy Playground, led by singer-guitarist John Wozniak.
When did it come out?
1997, on the band’s self-titled debut album.
How did it chart?
It topped Billboard’s Modern Rock chart for 15 weeks and reached No. 8 on the Hot 100.
What does the title mean?
It references a quip about a room smelling like “sex and candy,” used as a playful, evocative hook.
Where can I read the full lyrics?
On official lyric sites that license the text. We only include brief excerpts for commentary.