About the song
**”It’s Up To You”** is a classic rock and roll song by the iconic American singer Rick Nelson. Released in 1958, it marked a pivotal moment in his career, solidifying his status as a teen idol and showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Nelson, often referred to as “Ricky,” burst onto the music scene in the mid-1950s with his charismatic personality and youthful energy. His early hits, such as “Hello Mary Lou,” “Stood Up,” and “Be My Honey,” captured the hearts of young audiences across the nation. However, “It’s Up To You” represented a departure from his typical upbeat, teen-oriented fare.
The song, penned by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the songwriting duo behind numerous hits for artists like Elvis Presley and the Drifters, is a soulful ballad that showcases Nelson’s vocal range and emotional depth. With its poignant lyrics about the complexities of love and relationships, “It’s Up To You” resonated with a wider audience beyond the teenage demographic.
The opening verse sets the stage for the song’s emotional narrative: “I’ve been thinking ’bout the way you look at me, With those big brown eyes that shine so bright. You’re the girl of my dreams, that’s easy to see, But it’s up to you to make things right.” Nelson’s voice is filled with longing and vulnerability as he expresses his deep affection for his loved one.
The chorus, with its repetitive refrain of “It’s up to you,” emphasizes the uncertainty and anxiety that the narrator feels about the future of their relationship. Nelson’s vocals convey a sense of desperation and pleading, as he hopes that his partner will choose to stay with him.
The bridge of the song introduces a more hopeful tone, as the narrator expresses his willingness to do anything to make the relationship work. “I’ll be there for you, whenever you need me. I’ll love you forever, that’s easy to see.” Nelson’s voice is filled with sincerity and conviction as he promises his unwavering devotion.
The final chorus brings the song to a powerful conclusion, with Nelson’s vocals soaring above the instrumental accompaniment. The line “It’s up to you” is delivered with a sense of urgency and finality, as if the narrator is leaving the fate of their relationship entirely in the hands of his partner.
“It’s Up To You” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Rick Nelson’s heartfelt performance and the song’s relatable lyrics have ensured its enduring popularity. It serves as a testament to his talent and versatility as an artist, and remains a beloved staple of the rock and roll canon.
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Lyrics
It’s up to you
Because I’ve done everything I can
I hope that you
Will say that I’m your loving man
Make up your mind
And do what you’re gonna do
Well you know how I feel
So I’m leaving it up to you
It’s all so clear
That I would give everything I own
To have you near
Never leave me all alone
I need your love
So, darling, please be fair
Let me know where I stand
And I hope that you say you care
Well I’ve laid my cards on the table
And it’s oh so plain to see
That I’m ready, willing and able
To love you faithfully
It’s up to you
No, it’s not for me to say
You love me too
Oh, but I hope you feel that way
Make up your mind
And do what you’re gonna do
Well you know how I feel
So I’m leaving it up to you
Make up your mind
And do what you’re gonna do
Well you know how I feel
So I’m leaving it up to you
It’s up to you
Darling, it’s up to you
Baby, it’s up to you
Darling, it’s up to you
Baby, it’s up to you
Darling, it’s up to you
Baby, it’s up to you