About the song
“A Teenager’s Romance,” penned by David Stewart Gillam, showcases the youthful exuberance and charm that defined Ricky Nelson’s early career in music. Released in 1957 alongside “I’m Walking,” the song quickly ascended the charts, peaking at an impressive #2 on the Billboard Top 100. This success cemented Ricky Nelson’s status as a rising star in the burgeoning rock ‘n’ roll scene of the 1950s.
David Stewart Gillam, better known for his prowess as a tennis player and teaching pro at the Palm Springs Racquet Club, displayed a knack for crafting lyrics that resonated with the teenage audience of the time. “A Teenager’s Romance” captured the innocence and excitement of young love, set against a backdrop of catchy melodies and Nelson’s distinctive vocals.
The song’s popularity was further underscored by its recognition on Billboard magazine’s year-end charts, where it secured the No. 25 spot among the top songs of 1957. This achievement highlighted not only the song’s commercial success but also its enduring impact on popular culture during the era.
Accompanying Ricky Nelson’s performance was the instrumental talent of musicians like James Burton and Richie Frost, whose contributions enriched the song with lively guitar riffs and rhythmic beats. Together, they created a sound that epitomized the youthful spirit and energy of rock ‘n’ roll in the 1950s.
Beyond its initial release, “A Teenager’s Romance” remains a nostalgic gem, evoking memories of a bygone era when rock ‘n’ roll was revolutionizing music worldwide. Its legacy is evident in Ricky Nelson’s extensive discography, where it stands as a testament to his early musical achievements and enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
As we revisit “A Teenager’s Romance,” we celebrate not only the talent of Ricky Nelson and David Stewart Gillam but also the timeless appeal of a song that continues to resonate with listeners, capturing the essence of teenage dreams and emotions from decades past.
Video
Lyrics
A teenager’s romance is fickled or true
A teenager’s romance is red-hot or blue
You’re either in misery or high on a crest
A teenager’s romance is like all the rest
They tell us we’re different
We haven’t the right to decide for ourselves, dear
What’s black and what’s white? (Bah-bah-bah-bah-bah-bah)
Keep saying you love me and they’ll look upon
A teenager’s romance that goes on and on
They tell us we’re different
We haven’t the right to decide for ourselves, dear
What’s black and what’s white? (Bah-bah-bah-bah-bah-bah)
Keep saying you love me and they’ll look upon
A teenager’s romance that goes on and on
A teenager’s romance that goes on and on