About the song
“Oh! Carol” is an internationally renowned hit song composed by Neil Sedaka in 1958, co-written with Howard Greenfield. Known for Sedaka’s lyrical ode, it became a chart-topping success in various countries, marking a significant milestone in Sedaka’s career.
The song enjoyed considerable chart longevity, spending 18 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at number 9 on December 6, 1959. Simultaneously, it reached the impressive position of number 3 on the UK’s New Musical Express chart. Internationally, “Oh! Carol” also secured Sedaka his first number one hit in countries like the Netherlands and Wallonia.
Initially released as a single, “Oh! Carol” was later included in the album titled “Neil Sedaka Sings Little Devil and His Other Hits.” The song’s lyrics affectionately refer to Carol Klein, Sedaka’s high school girlfriend and a fellow songwriter at the Brill Building. Klein later married Gerry Goffin, who composed a light-hearted response titled “Oh! Neil,” which Carole King recorded under her stage name in 1959. Despite its release, King’s response did not achieve the same commercial success as Sedaka’s original.
The B-side of “Oh! Carol,” titled “One Way Ticket,” also contributed to Sedaka’s success, reaching number one in Japan for several months in 1960.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to Sedaka’s infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and its nostalgic appeal. It encapsulates a moment in time and remains a classic representation of early rock and roll music. Over the years, “Oh! Carol” has continued to resonate with audiences, cementing its status as a timeless piece in Neil Sedaka’s illustrious repertoire.
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Lyrics
Oh! CarolI am but a foolDarling, I love youThough you treat me cruelYou hurt meAnd you make me cryBut if you leave meI will surely dieDarling, there will never be another‘Cause I love you soDon’t ever leave meSay you’ll never goI will always want you for my sweet heartNo matter what you doOh! CarolI’m so in love with youOh! CarolI am but a foolDarling, I love youThough you treat me cruelYou hurt meAnd you make me cryBut if you leave meI will surely dieDarling, there will never be another‘Cause I love you soDon’t ever leave meSay you’ll never goI will always want you for my sweet heartNo matter what you doOh! CarolI’m so in love with you