Flashback Friday: Britney Spears ‘Baby, One More Time’

Back to school time and this week's Flashback Friday Spotlight shines on Britney Spears in her school girl days. The pop princess used a school setting to showcase her dance moves in the chart topping hit, 'Baby, One More Time.'

It's interesting how some tend to think the path to becoming a big recording star is easy. Others know, it takes time and a little bit of luck. It's reported that Britney Spears was considered for a girl group. However, her mother turned that down after consulting with an entertainment lawyer. So, Britney went around shopping 'Baby One More Time.'  Here's a song that was turned down by TLC. Eventually, it was JIVE who took a bite. They sent her to vocal coach for touch ups and off to the studio. The song was released in January of 1999 and became an instant hit, shooting straight up to number 1 on the Billboard chart. Get this, the song hit #1 in each country it charted. That's huge for an established artist, try doing that with a debut song. That's big.

Wikpedia lists these facts on the song:

It also received numerous certifications around the world, and is one of the best-selling singles of all time, with over 10 million copies sold. An accompanying music video, directed by Nigel Dick, portrays Spears as a student from a Catholic high school, who starts to daydream that she is singing and dancing around the school, while watching her love interest from afar.

Apparently, the record label originally wanted the video to be animated. Britney rejected the idea and pushed for the school girl angle. Good thing, as the video is considered one of the most influential of the decade. The song would land her the Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal.

Let's get back to school, and kick it old school with Britney from the 90s. One most influential recordings for a generation and a signature song for a pop superstar. Below is the video.

Britney Spears 'Baby One More Time'

Listen for the B101.7 Flashback Friday Spotlight every Friday after 5pm with Greg Thomas. Every weekend, join Louie Linguini for the Saturday Night Party loaded with your favorite flashback party songs!