About the song
Ray Peterson’s “Tell Laura I Love Her” is an undeniably iconic piece of early rock and roll, a song that has etched itself into the annals of music history. Released in 1960, it was a cultural phenomenon that captured the hearts and imaginations of a generation.
The song’s narrative is a poignant tale of youthful tragedy. It’s a first-person account by a friend of a young man named Tommy, who tragically loses his life in a car race while on his way to tell Laura, the love of his life, about his feelings. This dramatic and heart-wrenching storyline, coupled with its infectious melody, resonated deeply with the public, particularly teenagers, who found themselves drawn into the tragic romance.
The song’s impact can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, it tapped into the burgeoning youth culture of the 1950s and early 1960s, a time of rebellion and exploration. The themes of young love, loss, and the thrill of speed were all elements that resonated with the teenage audience. Secondly, the music itself was innovative for its time. The driving rhythm, coupled with Peterson’s raw and emotive vocal delivery, created a powerful and compelling sound.
“Tell Laura I Love Her” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has influenced countless artists and songs that followed. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, and its legacy as a cornerstone of rock and roll is secure.
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 grounds
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…