About the song
“Tell Laura I Love Her” is a poignant ballad that encapsulates the tragic tale of young love and loss, set against the backdrop of a dramatic stock car race. Written by Jeff Barry and Ben Raleigh, the song gained significant popularity after Ray Peterson’s rendition reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1960. It tells the heart-wrenching story of Tommy, a young man deeply in love with Laura, and his desperate attempt to secure a future with her.
The narrative unfolds with Tommy’s decision to enter a dangerous stock car race, driven by his earnest desire to win the prize money and buy Laura a wedding ring. Despite being the least experienced driver, Tommy’s determination propels him forward. Tragically, during the race, his car overturns and catches fire, leading to fatal injuries. In his final moments, Tommy’s dying words, “Tell Laura I love her,” express his undying affection and hopes for their future together.
The song’s emotional depth is heightened by its vivid imagery and poignant lyrics. The second verse poignantly describes the fatal accident that ultimately claims Tommy’s life, leaving Laura to grapple with grief and longing. The haunting refrain, where Tommy’s voice echoes through Laura’s prayers in the chapel, underscores the enduring nature of their love, even in the face of tragedy.
“Tell Laura I Love Her” underwent some controversy and adaptation in its recording history. Originally conceived with a rodeo theme, it was later revised to feature a more relatable narrative of youthful passion and sacrifice. Despite initial reluctance from some record labels and broadcasters due to its perceived sensitivity, the song resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Ricky Valance’s cover version notably topped the UK Singles Chart, solidifying its status as a transatlantic hit.
Over the years, “Tell Laura I Love Her” has endured as a classic example of the teenage tragedy genre, touching listeners with its universal themes of love, loss, and remembrance. Its haunting melody and evocative storytelling continue to evoke powerful emotions, ensuring its place in the annals of music history as a timeless ballad of heartbreaking beauty.
Video
Lyrics
Laura and Tommy were lovers
He wanted to give her everything
Flowers, presents,
But most of all, a wedding ring
He saw a sign for a stock car race
A thousand dollar prize it read
He couldn’t get Laura on the phone
So to her mother, Tommy said
Tell Laura I love her
Tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura I may be late
I’ve something to do, that cannot wait
He drove his car to the racing grounds
He was the youngest driver there
The crowed roared as they started the race
Around the track they drove at a deadly pace
No one knows what happened that day
Or how his car overturned in flames
But as they pulled him from the twisted wreck
With his dying breath, they heard him say
Tell Laura I love her
Tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura not to cry
My love for her will never die
Now in the chapel where Laura prays
For her poor Tommy, who passed away
It was just for Laura he lived and died
Alone in the chapel she can hear him cry
Tell Laura I love her
Tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura not to cry
My love for her will never die
Tell Laura I love her
Tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura not to cry
My love for her will never die