Daniel Goldmark discusses the gimmicky, cute and catchy 'The Chipmunk Song'

“Alvin and the Chipmunks” books and other merchandise
(Damian Dovarganes/AP)
“Alvin and the Chipmunks” books and other merchandise are shown in 2007 at the home of Ross Bagdasarian Jr. and Janice Karman, the owners of the franchise, at their home office in Montecito, Calif.

The Washington Post: Music's Daniel Goldmark, director of the Center for Popular Music Studies, discussed the gimmicky, cute and catchy  an annual holiday favorite since 1958. He explained how the song’s brevity and "gentle, treadmill-like movement" likely contributed to its success. (Subscription may be required.)