About the song
“Da Doo Ron Ron (When He Walked Me Home)” is a quintessential pop song that first gained prominence in 1963 through its iconic rendition by The Crystals. Written by the talented trio Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector, this track not only marked the beginning of their collaborative songwriting but also became a defining example of the classic “Wall of Sound” production style. Initially, the title “Da Doo Ron Ron” was a placeholder for dummy lyrics, but Spector found it so catchy that it became the song’s permanent hook.
The Crystals’ version, recorded in March 1963 at Gold Star Studios in Los Angeles, showcases Phil Spector’s innovative production techniques. The song was a massive hit, climbing to number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and number four on the Cash Box chart. It also reached number five in the UK, cementing its place in pop history. The track’s upbeat rhythm and joyful lyrics, combined with Spector’s dense, echoing sound, create a captivating listening experience that resonated with audiences worldwide. Dolores “LaLa” Brooks delivered the lead vocals, with backing from a chorus that included a young Cher, adding another layer of star power to the track.
The Crystals’ “Da Doo Ron Ron” was more than just a commercial success; it was a song that captured the exuberance and simplicity of early 1960s pop music. Its infectious melody and clever, straightforward storytelling about a girl’s infatuation with a new love struck a chord with listeners. This track’s enduring appeal is reflected in its inclusion on numerous “greatest songs” lists. In 2004, it was ranked number 114 on Rolling Stone’s list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, though it was briefly removed in 2010, it made a notable return at number 366 in the 2021 update. It also holds a spot on Q Magazine’s list of The 1001 Best Songs Ever and is recognized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as one of the “500 Songs That Shaped Rock.”
The song’s influence extends beyond its original release, as evidenced by Shaun Cassidy’s successful 1977 cover, which topped the Billboard Hot 100, and various other interpretations by artists including the Raindrops, a group featuring the songwriters themselves, as well as Bobby Vee and Deja Voodoo. “Da Doo Ron Ron” remains a cherished piece of pop history, embodying the spirit of its era and continuing to captivate new generations with its timeless charm.
Video
Lyrics
I met him on a Monday and my heart stood stillDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronSomebody told me that his name was BillDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronYeah, my heart stood stillYes, his name was BillAnd when he walked me homeDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronI knew what he was doing when he caught my eyeDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronHe looked so quiet but my oh myDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronYeah, he caught my eyeYes, oh my, oh myAnd when he walked me homeDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronHe picked me up at seven and he looked so fineDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronSomeday soon I’m gonna make him mineDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronYeah, he looked so fine,Yes, I’ll make him mineAnd when he walked me homeDa doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ronYeah-yeah-yeah-yeah…Da-doo-ron-ronDa-doo-ron-ron…
qwerty