About the song
“That’ll Be the Day” is more than just a catchy rock and roll tune; it’s a cultural touchstone that ushered in a new era of music. Written by Buddy Holly and Jerry Allison, the song captured the spirit of youthful rebellion and defiance that defined the late 1950s.
The song’s origins are as interesting as its sound. Inspired by a line from the John Wayne film “The Searchers,” “That’ll Be the Day” became a rallying cry for teenagers yearning for independence. The lyrics, with their playful defiance (“When you’re good you’re bad and when you’re bad you’re good, you don’t regret what you’ve done”) resonated with a generation finding its voice.
“That’ll Be the Day” wasn’t just about rebellious lyrics; it was a pioneering sound. The 1957 recording by the Crickets, featuring Holly’s iconic vocals and a driving beat, set the stage for rock and roll as we know it. The song’s raw energy and innovative use of electric guitars broke away from the traditional sounds of the time.
The song’s impact is undeniable. It became a chart-topper in both the US and the UK, solidifying Holly’s status as a rock and roll pioneer. “That’ll Be the Day” also holds a special place in music history. It was the first song recorded by the Quarrymen, a skiffle group that eventually evolved into the Beatles, highlighting its influence on the next generation of musical giants.
The legacy of “That’ll Be the Day” extends beyond awards and chart success. The song’s rebellious spirit and innovative sound continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike. Linda Ronstadt’s Grammy-winning cover in 1976 is just one example of how the song’s energy transcends generations.
Today, “That’ll Be the Day” remains a timeless classic. It’s a song that evokes feelings of nostalgia and reminds us of the power of music to challenge the status quo and celebrate youthful independence. Whether enjoyed for its historical significance or simply as a foot-tapping anthem, “That’ll Be the Day” continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
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Lyrics
Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die
Well, you gave me all your loving
And your turtle doving
All your hugs and kisses
And your money too
You know you love me, baby
Still you tell me maybe
That someday well
I’ll be through
Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die
Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
Cause that’ll be the day
When I die, well
When Cupid shot his dart
He shot it at your heart
So if we ever part
Then I’ll leave you
You sit and hold me
And you tell me boldly
That someday
Well, I’ll be through
Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die
Well, that’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day