About the song
“Let’s Hang On!” is a vibrant and memorable track composed by Bob Crewe, Sandy Linzer, and Denny Randell, and it was brought to prominence by the iconic Four Seasons in 1965. This song represents a pivotal moment for the group, capturing their dynamic sound and flair during a transformative period in their career.
Released as a single in the summer of 1965, “Let’s Hang On!” achieved impressive commercial success. The song reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, marking the Four Seasons’ highest chart placement since their previous hit, “Rag Doll,” which had topped the charts in July 1964. This track not only reasserted the group’s presence in the competitive pop music landscape but also showcased their continued relevance and popularity.
This release was notably the last hit to feature bass singer Nick Massi, who departed from the group shortly after the song’s release. Massi was temporarily replaced by Charles Calello, the band’s arranger, before Joe Long came on board as his permanent replacement. The transition marked a significant change for the Four Seasons as they navigated their evolving lineup and shifting dynamics.
The song’s appeal is rooted in its distinctive production and arrangement. It features a memorable two-line introduction sung by lead vocalist Frankie Valli and is driven by an engaging hard-driving dance rhythm. The arrangement includes the innovative use of two fuzz guitars—one playing low notes and the other high notes on a fuzz bass—creating a unique sound that complemented Valli’s powerful falsetto. The chorus, rich with hooks, and the contrasting backing vocals enhance the song’s energetic and upbeat vibe.
Critics praised “Let’s Hang On!” for its infectious rhythm and catchy appeal. Billboard described it as having a “hard-driving dance rhythm,” while Cash Box highlighted its “hard-rockin’ fast-moving rhythmic ode” that captures the joy and excitement of finding love. The single’s B-side, “On Broadway Tonight,” added further intrigue as it served as the theme for a CBS-TV variety series hosted by Rudy Vallee.
In addition to its success in the United States, “Let’s Hang On!” also made waves in the UK, where it reached No. 4 on the charts. The song’s success solidified the Four Seasons’ position in the music industry, demonstrating their ability to adapt and thrive through changing times.
Video
Lyrics
There ain’t no good in our goodby-in’
True love takes, a lot of tryin’ oh I’m cryin’
Let’s hang on, to what we’ve got
Don’t let go girl, we’ve got a lot
Got a lot of love between us
(Hang on, hang on, hang on)
To what we’ve got
(Do-do, do-do, do-do)
You say you’re gonna go and call it quits
Gonna chuck it all and break our love to bits
(Breakin’ up) I wish you’d never said it (breakin’ up)
No, no we’ll both regret it
That little chip of diamond on your hand
Ain’t a fortune baby but you know it stands
(For your love) A love to tie and bind us (such a love)
We just can’t leave behind us
Baby (don’t you go) Baby (oh no no) Baby
Sta-ay, let’s hang on
To what we’ve got
Don’t let go girl, we’ve got a lot
Got a lot of love between us
(Hang on, hang on, hang on)
To what we’ve got
(Do-do, do-do, do-do)
There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do
I’d pay any price to get in good with you
(Patch it up) Give me a second turning (patch it up)
Don’t cool off while I’m burning
You’ve got me cryin dyin’ at your door
Don’t shut me out let me in once more
(Open up) Your arms I need to hold you (open up)
Your heart oh, girl I told you
Baby (don’t you go) Baby (oh no no) Baby
Sta-ay
Let’s hang on (girl) to what we’ve got (girl)
Don’t let go girl, we’ve got a lot
Got a lot of love between us
(Hang on, hang on, hang on)
To what we’ve got
(Do-do, do-do, do-do)
Ahhh, ahhh, ahhh, ahhh, ahhh…