(NEXSTAR) —
“Don’t worry, be happy”
— If you were alive during the late 1990s and early 2000s, chances are high that Bobby McFerrin’s 1988 song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” is most closely associated with one particular artist—and it isn’t him, sadly. You likely recall this association clearly.
animatronic fish singing
it.
Launched in 1999, Big Mouth Billy Bass was a quirky item developed by the Coppell, Texas-based firm Gemmy that rapidly gained worldwide attention. Essentially, the catchy electronic fish statue’s fame can be seen as a precursor to today’s social-media-driven virality.
The famous Big MouthBilly Bass has a distinctive look with the main character—a fish—mounted on a wall plaque. Pressing a tiny red button beneath it triggers the animatronic creature to sing Al Green’s 1974 hit song.
Bring Me to the Shore.
Although Billy rapidly gained popularity—acquired by individuals ranging from President Bill Clinton, then Prime Minister Tony Blair, and the late Queen Elizabeth II—the bass trend soon waned. However, it had managed to generate almost $100 million in sales by the end of 2000, according to reports.
Ranker
.
Nowadays, if you’re looking for a brand new BMBB, you’ll have to browse auction websites such as eBay, where one can be found.
Originally sealed Big Mouth Billy Bass
Now it can go as high as $200. This represents a significant increase from its initial retail price of about $30. Gemmy additionally released
special variations
of Billy (along with other, lesser-known characters, such as
Rocky the Singing Lobster
and these canFetch even higher prices (up to $300).
Meanwhile, a used-but-in-good-condition
Operating Big Mouth Billy Bass
(kept in its original box) will be significantly cheaper. These usually sell for approximately $100.
Ultimately, even though we’re several decades away from Billy’s prime years, there remains significant nostalgia for the fish-toting singer on various online platforms. A recurring theme involves modifying the toy to play music from different sources. In 2021, a well-received TikTok video posted by user Kevin Heckart showcased a connection between the Billy Bass and Alexa that enabled this functionality.
Big Mouth Billy Bass to perform Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass”
(get it?).
The product’s ability to become an internet sensation allows it to seamlessly integrate into contemporary pop culture. Even individuals who weren’t around during its prime time tend to feel fondness towards this gadget.
One X user
opined
In February: “Make sure the whole world knows that if I don’t receive a Big Mouth Billy Bass for my birthday, I will cause the world’s biggest commotion.”
crash out
.”
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