About the song
**Ray Peterson’s** “Tell Laura I Love Her,” a timeless ballad released in 1960, continues to resonate with listeners decades after its initial release. This poignant song, with its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, captures the essence of love and loss in a way that transcends generations.
The song’s narrative centers around a young man who is tragically killed in a car accident. Before his untimely death, he implores his friend to convey his final message to his beloved, Laura. The lyrics express his deep affection and regret, painting a vivid picture of their shared memories and the pain of parting.
Peterson’s emotive vocals, coupled with the orchestral arrangement, create a powerful and evocative atmosphere. The song’s simplicity belies its emotional depth, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The repeated refrain, “Tell Laura I love her, tell Laura I love her,” serves as a haunting reminder of the man’s enduring love for Laura, even in the face of death.
“Tell Laura I Love Her” quickly became a massive hit upon its release, topping the charts in several countries. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes of love, loss, and the fragility of life. The song’s ability to evoke strong emotional responses has cemented its place in music history.
Beyond its commercial success, “Tell Laura I Love Her” has also had a significant cultural impact. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and The Drifters, each offering their own unique interpretation of the classic song. The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with audiences across generations.
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Lyrics
Laura and Tommy were lovers
He wanted to give her everything
Flowers, presents and 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 ground
He was the youngest driver there
The crowd roared as they started the race
‘Round the track they drove at a deadly pace
No one knows what happened that day
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 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 love her