The world of pop celebrated a milestone when Britney Spears’ 2000 hit “Oops…I Did It Again” turned 20.

The catchy number almost immediately soared to number one on the charts in 15 countries after its release in May 2000. The lyrics are fun and just a bit naughty, telling the tale of a girl who likes to play with love. Taken literally, she seems remorseful for toying with boys and their feelings. But the cheeky sarcasm dripping throughout the entire number assures us all that she is not the least bit sorry.

It became the anthem for a generation of girls, frustrated by being unable to demonstrate even the most basic niceness towards a man without being accused of flirting. “Oops…” gave women everywhere permission to laugh at the presumptions of males. And most importantly, gave them more confidence to say no. For a fun pop song, this one had far more to say than first appeared. It crashed through gender stereotypes and showed us that girls could be players. That having fun with love was ok. And that our choices were entirely our own.

“Oops…” marked the first time Britney developed the concept for the accompanying music video herself, which features the pop star on Mars, wearing that now ionic red leather jumpsuit. The video and brilliantly choreographed dance number have become instantly recognisable and just as legendary as the song itself. 

The singer has celebrated the anniversary of her famous hit by posting a short video on social media. In a heartfelt tweet to her fans, she thanks them for their support over the years and speaks of the nervousness she felt prior to the track’s release. Spears has also been engaging in some very amusing banter with none other than NASA themselves about how it’s been “20 years since we met on Mars.” 

Spears was no stranger to number one hits by the time “Oops…” landed. During her career, the singer has earned herself seven Guinness World Records, including youngest female to have six number one albums and best-selling teenage artist of all time. With countless award nominations and multiple wins to her name, Spears has established herself as far more than just another pop princess. She has become a legend. 

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Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.