About the Song
Buddy Holly and “That’ll Be the Day”: A Rock and Roll Anthem
In the annals of rock and roll history, few names resonate with the same level of cultural significance as Buddy Holly. A pioneer of the genre, Holly’s music left an indelible mark on the landscape of popular culture, influencing countless artists who followed in his footsteps. Among his many iconic hits, “That’ll Be the Day” stands out as a quintessential rock and roll anthem, capturing the energy, rebellion, and youthful exuberance that defined the early days of rock and roll.
Released in 1957, “That’ll Be the Day” marked a turning point in Holly’s career, propelling him from regional stardom to national recognition. The song’s infectious melody, driven by Holly’s signature jangly guitar riffs and punctuated by the steady beat of his drums, quickly captured the attention of audiences worldwide. Its lyrics, penned by Holly and his bandmate Jerry Allison, exude a playful defiance, with Holly’s vocals conveying a mix of teenage bravado and vulnerability.
Beyond its catchy tune and relatable lyrics, “That’ll Be the Day” holds historical significance as one of the first rock and roll songs to achieve widespread commercial success. Its impact on the genre was profound, ushering in a new era of rock and roll that would forever alter the course of popular music. Holly’s innovative use of electric guitars and his emphasis on rhythm and melody set a new standard for rock and roll songwriting, paving the way for countless artists who followed in his wake.
The song’s influence extends far beyond its initial release, becoming an enduring cultural touchstone. “That’ll Be the Day” has been covered by countless artists, from Elvis Presley and The Beatles to Bruce Springsteen and Elton John, each adding their own interpretation to Holly’s timeless classic. Its presence in popular culture is undeniable, having been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials.
In a broader sense, “That’ll Be the Day” epitomizes the spirit of rock and roll itself. The song’s rebellious energy, its celebration of youth and freedom, and its unabashed embrace of self-expression perfectly capture the essence of the genre. Holly’s legacy lives on in every guitar riff, every drumbeat, and every heartfelt vocal performance that embodies the spirit of rock and roll. “That’ll Be the Day” stands as a testament to Holly’s enduring influence and his indelible mark on the history of music.
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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