About the song
“LIttle Darlin'” is a timeless piece of musical history, originating from the creative mind of a young Maurice Williams at the tender age of 16. Composed with a distinct Calypso rhythm and infused with the spirit of doo-wop, this iconic song made its debut in January 1957 through Williams’ group, the Gladiolas. The group’s rendition, initially recorded under the title “Little Darlin’/ The Beginning,” was marked by Fred Mangum’s memorable falsetto and Maurice Williams’ heartfelt spoken interlude.
The journey of “Little Darlin'” continued with its transformation under the tutelage of Nashville’s Earnie Young, who added a Latin flair and guided the group towards a refined sound that resonated deeply within the R&B community. Despite achieving modest success on the R&B charts, the Gladiolas’ version made little impact on the broader Billboard Hot 100.
However, the song’s destiny changed with The Diamonds’ cover version, released shortly after. This rendition catapulted “Little Darlin'” to new heights, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying its status as a doo-wop classic. The Diamonds’ interpretation, celebrated for its energetic delivery and intricate vocal harmonies, garnered widespread acclaim, even surpassing the original in popularity over time.
Critics and music historians, including Allmusic’s Stephen Thomas Erlewine, have highlighted The Diamonds’ version as a standout example of a cover song outshining its predecessor. Its enduring appeal is attributed to a dynamic performance that blends humor with musical excellence, captivating audiences for generations to come.
Beyond The Diamonds, “Little Darlin'” found new life through interpretations by various artists like Elvis Presley and rock-and-roll revivalists Sha Na Na, each adding their unique flair while honoring the song’s doo-wop roots. Its presence in cultural milestones like the Woodstock Festival and TV specials further cemented its place in the annals of rock ‘n roll history.
Thus, “Little Darlin'” remains not only a cherished relic of the 1950s music scene but also a testament to the enduring power of doo-wop, captivating listeners with its infectious melody and timeless charm.
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Lyrics
Ah, ya ya ya ya, ya ya ya ya, ya ya ya ya
Little darling oh little darling
O-oh where a-are you?
My lover I was wronger
To try to love two
Ahh uha uha uha uha
Knowing well that my lover
Was just for you uh only you
My darling I need you
To call my own
And never do wrong
To hold in mine
Your little hand
I’ll know too soon
That I’ll so pray
Please hold my hand
My dear I was wronger
To try to love two
Ahh uha uha uha uha
Knowing well that my lover
Was just for you
Uh only you