About the song
Jeff Barry and Ben Raleigh’s “Tell Laura I Love Her” is a poignant testament to the enduring power of teenage heartbreak and the fragility of life. Released in 1960, this tragic ballad quickly ascended the charts, becoming a top 10 hit for Ray Peterson in the United States and reaching number one in the United Kingdom when covered by Ricky Valance. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless theme of young love cut tragically short, a narrative that has resonated with audiences for generations.
The song paints a vivid picture of a young man, Tommy, deeply in love with Laura. Driven by his desire to provide her with a wedding ring, he enters a dangerous car race, despite being inexperienced. The tragic outcome is foreshadowed from the outset, as Tommy’s fatal decision is driven by his unwavering love. The lyrics, particularly the repeated refrain, “Tell Laura I love her,” underscore the poignant finality of Tommy’s fate and the enduring nature of his affection.
The song’s musical arrangement is equally evocative, with a driving rhythm and a soaring melody that perfectly captures the emotional intensity of the narrative. Peterson’s powerful vocals convey a sense of raw emotion, making the listener feel as if they are witnessing the tragic events unfold. Valance’s cover, while slightly different in style, also captured the hearts of listeners and helped to solidify the song’s place in music history.
Beyond its commercial success, “Tell Laura I Love Her” has had a significant cultural impact. The song’s themes of young love, loss, and the fragility of life have been explored in countless works of art, from literature to film. Moreover, the song’s enduring popularity has inspired countless cover versions and has been referenced in popular culture.
In conclusion, “Tell Laura I Love Her” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its tragic narrative, combined with its powerful music and heartfelt lyrics, has secured its place in the pantheon of great love songs. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of love.
Video
Lyrics
Laura and Tommy were lovers
He wanted to give her everything
Flowers, presents and most of all, a wedding ring
He saw a sign for a stock car race
“A thousand dollar prize, ” it read
He couldn’t get Laura on the phone
So to her mother, Tommy said
“Tell Laura I love her
Tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura I may be late
I’ve something to do, that cannot wait”
He drove his car to the racing ground
He was the youngest driver there
The crowd roared as they started the race
‘Round the track they drove at a deadly pace
No one knows what happened that day
How his car overturned in flames
But as they pulled him from the twisted wreck
With his dying breath, they heard him say
“Tell Laura I love her
Tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura not to cry
My love for her will never die”
Now in the chapel where Laura prays
For her Tommy who passed away
It was just for Laura, he lived and died
Alone in the chapel she can hear him cry
“Tell Laura I love her
Tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura not to cry
My love for her will never die”
Tell Laura I love her
Tell Laura I love her