About the song
“Runaround Sue” is a quintessential rock and roll track that became a major hit in 1961. Performed by Dion, this song marked a significant moment in his career, especially following his split with the Belmonts. The song achieved great success, reaching number one on the US Hot 100 chart and number four on the Hot R&B chart. It remains a classic example of the rock and roll genre, particularly noted for its modified doo-wop style.
The story behind “Runaround Sue” is as engaging as the song itself. Dion co-wrote the song with Ernie Maresca. The inspiration for the song emerged in a rather casual setting—during a friend’s birthday party. Dion began improvising lyrics and encouraged his friends to contribute doo-wop style background harmonies accompanied by a clapping rhythm. This informal jam session laid the groundwork for what would become a hit record. Dion and Maresca then refined the song, and with the help of the Del-Satins, recorded it at Bell Sound Studios in New York City during the summer of 1961.
The lyrics of “Runaround Sue” tell the tale of a man whose former lover, Sue, is portrayed as disloyal and unfaithful. He warns others to steer clear of her, highlighting her tendency to “run around” with different men. The catchy chorus, featuring lines like “now people let me put you wise, Sue goes out with other guys,” serves as a memorable and cautionary message about avoiding the pitfalls of a fickle partner.
Interestingly, Dion’s inspiration for the song was partly influenced by Gary U.S. Bonds’s “Quarter to Three.” While Dion’s wife, Susan, shares a name with the song’s character, Dion has clarified that the song was not directly about her, although in later years, a different story was presented.
“Runaround Sue” not only achieved commercial success but also earned critical acclaim. It was ranked No. 351 on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” and in 2002, Dion was honored with induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame for this classic hit.
Overall, “Runaround Sue” remains a vibrant and enduring piece of musical history, showcasing Dion’s talent and the dynamic energy of early rock and roll.
Video
Lyrics
Here’s my story, it’s sad but true
It’s about a girl that I once knew
She took my love then ran around
With every single guy in townYeah, I should have known it from the very start
This girl would leave me with a broken heart
Now listen people what I’m telling you
A-keep away from-a Runaround Sue, yeahI miss her lips and the smile on her face
The touch of her hand and this girl’s warm embrace
So if you don’t wanna cry like I do
A-keep away from-a Runaround SueShe likes to travel around, yeah
She’ll love you and she’ll put you down
Now people let me put you wise
Sue goes out with other guysHere’s the moral in the story from the guy who knows
I fell in love and my love still grows
Ask any fool that she ever knew, they’ll tell ya
Keep away from-a Runaround SueYeah keep away from this girl
I don’t know what she’ll do
Keep away from Sue!She likes to travel around, yeah
She’ll love you and she’ll put you down
Now people let me put you wise
She goes out with other guysHere’s the moral in the story from that guy who knows
I fell in love and my love still grows
Ask any fool that she ever knew, they’ll tell ya
A-keep away from-a Runaround SueStay away from that girl
Don’t you know what she’ll do now
Keep away from that girl