About the song
**Ricky Nelson** was more than just a teen idol; he was a cultural phenomenon. Emerging from the shadow of his famous parents, Ozzie and Harriet Nelson, Ricky carved out his own path in the music industry. His charismatic persona, coupled with his undeniable talent, captured the hearts of millions, especially young people, in the 1950s.
One of Nelson’s most enduring hits, **”It’s Late,”** perfectly encapsulates the rebellious spirit and youthful energy of its era. Released in 1957, the song quickly climbed the charts, becoming a staple of rock and roll radio. Its simple, catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated with a generation seeking to break free from societal expectations.
“It’s Late” is a classic tale of teenage angst and desire. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man torn between his responsibilities and his longing for adventure. The song’s opening lines, “Well, it’s late and I’m feeling kinda lonely,” immediately set the tone for a reflective and melancholic narrative. Nelson’s voice, with its youthful exuberance and hint of vulnerability, perfectly conveys the emotional depth of the song.
The bridge of “It’s Late” is particularly poignant, as Nelson expresses his frustration with the constraints of his life. He yearns for the freedom to explore and experience the world, but he is bound by societal expectations and the responsibilities of adulthood. The line, “I’m tired of being told what to do,” captures the rebellious spirit of the teenage years.
Despite its melancholic undertones, “It’s Late” is ultimately a hopeful song. Nelson’s longing for adventure is tempered by his desire for companionship and love. The closing lines, “Maybe someday, I’ll find my way,” suggest a belief that things will get better and that he will eventually achieve his dreams.
Ricky Nelson’s “It’s Late” remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and enduring message of youthful rebellion have cemented its place in the annals of rock and roll history.
Video
Lyrics
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get on home
It’s late, it’s late
We’ve been gone too long
Too bad, too bad
We shoulda checked our time
Can’t phone, can’t phone
We done spent every dime
It’s late, it’s late
We’re ’bout to run outta gas
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get home fast
Can’t speed, can’t speed
We’re in a slow-down zone
Baby, look at that clock
Why can’t it be wrong
If we coulda left home at a quarter to nine
Woulda had fun and plenty of time
We got started just a little bit late
Hope this won’t be our last date
Look up, look up
Is that the moon we see?
Can’t be, can’t be
Looks like the sun to me
It’s late, it’s late
I hate to face your dad
Too bad, too bad
I know he’s gonna be mad
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get on home
It’s late, it’s late
We’ve been gone too long
It’s late, it’s late
We’re ’bout to run outta gas
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get home fast
Can’t speed, can’t speed
We’re in a slow-down zone
Baby, look at that clock
Why can’t it be wrong
If we coulda left home at a quarter to nine
Woulda had fun and plenty of time
We got started just a little bit late
Hope this won’t be our last date
Look up, look up
Is that the moon we see?
Can’t be, can’t be
Looks like the sun to me
It’s late, it’s late
I hate to face your dad
Too bad, too bad
I know he’s gonna be mad
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get on home
It’s late, it’s late
We’ve been gone too long
It’s late