About the song
Oh! Carol. Just the title alone conjures up images of bobby socks, poodle skirts, and malt shops. Released in 1958, this infectious tune quickly climbed the charts, becoming an international sensation. For those of us who were teenagers during the golden age of rock and roll, “Oh! Carol” is more than just a song; it’s a sonic time capsule, transporting us back to a simpler era.
Neil Sedaka, the mastermind behind this catchy melody, was just a teenager himself when he wrote “Oh! Carol” with his songwriting partner, Howard Greenfield. Their ability to capture the essence of young love and teenage angst was uncanny. The song’s straightforward lyrics and upbeat tempo resonated with audiences around the world. It’s a testament to the songwriting duo’s talent that a song written so long ago continues to be relevant today.
One of the most distinctive features of “Oh! Carol” is Sedaka’s decision to speak rather than sing the second chorus. This unconventional approach added a conversational, almost intimate quality to the song, making it feel more like a personal confession than a polished pop record. It was a bold move that paid off, helping to solidify the song’s place in music history.
The song’s success spawned countless covers, with artists as diverse as The Four Seasons, Blue Diamonds, and even the Bollywood film industry putting their own spin on this classic. But it’s Sedaka’s original version that remains the definitive recording.
Whether you were dancing to “Oh! Carol” at your high school prom or simply humming along to it on the radio, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of this timeless tune. It’s a reminder that some songs are so well-crafted, they transcend generations. And for those of us who were lucky enough to experience the golden age of rock and roll firsthand, “Oh! Carol” is a cherished memory that we can revisit anytime we like.
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Lyrics
Oh! Carol, I am but a fool
Darling, I love you, though you treat me cruel
You hurt me and you make me cry
But if you leave me, I will surely die
Darling, there will never be another
Cause I love you so
Don’t ever leave me, say you’ll never go
I will always want you for my sweetheart
No matter what you do
Oh! Carol, I’m so in love with you
Oh! Carol, I am but a fool
Darling, I love you, though you treat me cruel
You hurt me and you make me cry
But if you leave me, I will surely die
Darling, there will never be another
Cause I love you so
Don’t ever leave me, say you’ll never go
I will always want you for my sweetheart
No matter what you do
Oh! Carol, I’m so in love with you