About the Song
In the vibrant tapestry of 1960s pop music, a unique subgenre emerged – the teenage tragedy song. These dramatic ballads captured the anxieties and heartbreaks of young love, often with a tragic twist. One such song, “Tell Laura I Love Her” by Ray Peterson, stands out for its catchy melody, powerful vocals, and its poignant exploration of lost love.
A Young Man’s Desperation:
Released in 1960, the song tells the story of Tommy, a young man desperately in love with Laura. The lyrics paint a picture of his fervent desire to marry her, but a barrier stands in his way – his lack of financial security. He dreams of buying her a wedding ring, a symbol of commitment, but feels powerless without the means to do so.
Taking a Daring Risk:
Fueled by his love and desperation, Tommy makes a heart-wrenching decision. He enters a dangerous stock car race, hoping to win the prize money and fulfill his dream of marrying Laura. The song’s lyrics capture the recklessness of youth, the lengths one might go to for love, even when faced with significant risks.
A Heartbreaking Plea:
The song takes a tragic turn as the narrator, presumably a friend of Tommy, delivers a heartbreaking plea. He sings, “Tell Laura I love her,” knowing that Tommy’s fate in the race is uncertain. This line resonates with the listener, urging empathy for both Tommy’s unwavering love and the potential loss that hangs heavy in the air.
A Timeless Ballad:
Though rooted in a specific era, “Tell Laura I Love Her” transcends the boundaries of time. The song’s themes of love, desperation, and sacrifice remain relatable across generations. The powerful vocals of Ray Peterson, coupled with the catchy melody, ensure the song stays lodged in the listener’s mind long after it ends.
A Legacy of Influence:
“Tell Laura I Love Her” became a major hit, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success paved the way for other teenage tragedy ballads and left a lasting mark on popular music. It continues to be covered by artists, a testament to its enduring appeal and ability to evoke emotions even decades after its release.
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Lyrics: Tell Laura I Love Her
Laura and Tommy were loversHe wanted to give her everythingFlowers, presents,But most of all, a wedding ringHe saw a sign for a stock car raceA thousand dollar prize it readHe couldn’t get Laura on the phoneSo to her mother, Tommy saidTell Laura I love herTell Laura I need herTell Laura I may be lateI’ve something to do, that cannot waitHe drove his car to the racing groundsHe was the youngest driver thereThe crowed roared as they started the raceAround the track they drove at a deadly paceNo one knows what happened that dayOr how his car overturned in flamesBut as they pulled him from the twisted wreckWith his dying breath, they heard him sayTell Laura I love herTell Laura I need herTell Laura not to cryMy love for her will never dieNow in the chapel where Laura praysFor her poor Tommy, who passed awayIt was just for Laura he lived and diedAlone in the chapel she can hear him cryTell Laura I love herTell Laura I need herTell Laura not to cryMy love for her will never dieTell Laura I love herTell Laura I need herTell Laura not to cryMy love for her will never die