Two sources for "earworm"

[James A. Landau]

On 4/25/2003 1:47:00 PM Eastern Standard Time, "Sal" (self at TOWSE.COM)
wrote:

<begin quote>
"earworm" is in quite common use in the groups I frequent on
Usenet.

Checking Googja, the first instance I can find "earworm" used in
a Usenet post is a post to soc.motss 1993-03-18. The person
writing is explaining "ohrwurm" and translates that German word
as "earworm." From that thread, the usage seems to have taken off
in soc.motss and spread from there to other Usenet groups and the
Web.
<end quote>

On the other hand, AOL News says

<begin quote>
What's With That Song Stuck in Your Head?

By RACHEL KIPP, AP

ALBANY, N.Y. (Oct. 20) - Unexpected and insidious, the earworm slinks its way
into the brain and refuses to leave. Symptoms vary, although high levels of
annoyance and frustration are common. There are numerous potential treatments,
but no cure.

''The Lion Sleeps Tonight,'' and Chili's ''baby back ribs'' jingle are two
songs that are tough to shake.

''Earworm'' is the term coined by University of Cincinnati marketing
professor James Kellaris for the usually unwelcome songs that get stuck in people's
heads. Since beginning his research in 2000, Kellaris has heard from people all
over the world requesting help, sharing anecdotes and offering solutions.  <
snip>
<end quote>

      - Jim Landau