They just didn't become big: "Lovefool" The Cardigans (1996)

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The Cardigans just did not catch on in the US beyond the heavy play of “Lovefool.” They have enjoyed enduring European success. The Swedish group formed in 1992 with five members most importantly lead singer Nina Persson of the sweet voice and model looks. They had already achieved notoriety in Europe while totally unknown in the US. From the album “First Band on the Moon,” their biggest hit “Lovefool” was written by Persson and bandmate Peter Svensson. Persson stated writing lyrics very quickly. “Lovefool” was released in 1996 to moderate European success then the 1997 reissue took off in the US thanks to the major boost of being included on the “Romeo+Juliet” soundtrack. Through some quirk, “Lovefool” was ineligible from being ranked on the Hot 100 but charted elsewhere and received much radio play plus the movie tie in video on MTV. The Cardigans performed “Lovefool” on the graduation episode of “Beverly Hills 90210.” So what happened? There was no follow up in the US though they produced more hits in Europe. Attitude? Persson did come off quite surly in a KROQ interview. However, she did marry an American and lived in New York City for awhile. The Cardigans are still together albeit with lengthy hiatuses in which members have pursued solo projects.