Dreamboats and Petticoats (compilation album)

Dreamboats and Petticoats is a series of compilation albums, primarily released in the United Kingdom, featuring popular music from the 1950s and early 1960s, often associated with the rock and roll, doo-wop, and early pop genres. The albums aim to evoke a nostalgic feeling for the era, commonly associated with themes of teenage romance, drive-in theaters, and sock hops.

The success of the Dreamboats and Petticoats compilation albums led to the development of a stage musical of the same name, featuring songs from the albums and a storyline set in the same time period. The musical has enjoyed considerable popularity in the UK and has toured extensively.

The albums typically feature original recordings by the artists who made the songs famous, and are marketed towards an audience who grew up with this music, as well as younger listeners interested in exploring the musical landscape of the era. The selection of tracks generally focuses on upbeat and romantic themes, intended to provide a feel-good listening experience.