About the song
“Please Don’t Ask About Barbara” by Bobby Vee is a poignant song that beautifully captures the essence of heartache and lost love. Released in the early 1960s, during a time when the airwaves were filled with melodious ballads and rock ‘n’ roll hits, this track stands out as a timeless piece that resonates with listeners of all ages.
Bobby Vee, born Robert Thomas Velline, was a prominent figure in the pop music scene of the late 1950s and early 1960s. His career took off under tragic circumstances, stepping in to perform after the infamous plane crash that claimed the lives of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson. Despite the somber start, Vee’s talent quickly shone through, and he became known for his smooth voice and heartfelt performances.
“Please Don’t Ask About Barbara” is a prime example of Vee’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music. The song tells the story of a man grappling with the pain of a recent breakup. Barbara, the subject of the song, is a significant figure in his life, and her absence leaves a void that he struggles to cope with. The lyrics are straightforward yet profoundly moving, painting a vivid picture of his internal turmoil.
The arrangement of the song complements the narrative beautifully. With its gentle, melancholic melody, it underscores the sorrow and longing that the protagonist feels. Vee’s vocal delivery is tender and sincere, drawing the listener into his world of heartache. The song’s chorus, repeating the plea to “please don’t ask about Barbara,” emphasizes his desperation to avoid the painful memories that talking about her would bring.
What makes “Please Don’t Ask About Barbara” particularly special is its relatability. Almost everyone has experienced the sting of lost love at some point in their lives. The song taps into that universal emotion, making it easy for listeners to connect with the protagonist’s plight. It’s a reminder of how music can encapsulate and express the deepest of human experiences.
In a broader context, Bobby Vee‘s contribution to the music industry cannot be overstated. He was part of a generation of artists who shaped the soundscape of their time, leaving an indelible mark on popular music. Songs like “Please Don’t Ask About Barbara” showcase his talent for storytelling through song and his ability to touch the hearts of his audience.
Listening to this song today, one can’t help but be transported back to a simpler time when melodies were pure, and emotions were laid bare. “Please Don’t Ask About Barbara” remains a classic, a testament to Bobby Vee‘s enduring legacy and his gift for creating music that speaks to the soul.
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Lyrics
Please don’t ask about BarbaraDon’t ask me if she’s found somebody new‘Cause I would try to smile but in a little whileMy tears would show and then you’d know it’s truePlease don’t ask about BarbaraThe hurt will bring the teardrops to my eyesThough I would pretend that now she’s just a friendYou’d look at me and see right through the liesTears, tears, go away, come again another dayHow can I hide this pain I feel insideWhen little teardrops give my heart awayDon’t you ever tell BarbaraI’d rather die than let her know I’m cryin’Let her run around until the day she’s foundShe needs me back again but this I ask till then“Please don’t ask about Barbara”