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The Crickets – That’ll Be the Day – 1957

About The Song

“That’ll Be the Day” by The Crickets, released in 1957, is a rock and roll classic that became an anthem of the genre’s early days. Co-written by Buddy Holly, the song features catchy guitar riffs and memorable lyrics, showcasing the band’s influential contribution to the rock and roll movement.

Five Facts:

  1. Buddy Holly’s Composition: “That’ll Be the Day” was co-written by Buddy Holly and Jerry Allison, both members of The Crickets. The song’s title is derived from a phrase used by John Wayne’s character in the film “The Searchers.”
  2. Breakthrough Hit: The song marked The Crickets’ breakthrough, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1957. Its success established Buddy Holly and the band as major players in the early rock and roll scene.
  3. Influence on The Beatles: The Beatles were inspired by The Crickets and Buddy Holly, and they even named their band partly as a tribute to The Crickets. The Beatles’ early recordings often included covers of Buddy Holly and The Crickets’ songs.
  4. Distinctive Guitar Riff: “That’ll Be the Day” is known for its distinctive guitar riff played by Buddy Holly. The catchy and energetic riff became a defining element of the song and contributed to its popularity.
  5. Impact on Rock and Roll: The song’s success and influence extended beyond its initial release. “That’ll Be the Day” is considered a pivotal track in the evolution of rock and roll, with its combination of rockabilly and country elements helping shape the sound of the genre in the late 1950s.

Video

Lyrics

Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die

Well, you gave me all your loving
And your turtle doving
All your hugs and kisses
And your money too
You know you love me, baby
Still you tell me maybe
That someday well
I’ll be through

Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die

Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
Cause that’ll be the day
When I die, well

When Cupid shot his dart
He shot it at your heart
So if we ever part
Then I’ll leave you
You sit and hold me
And you tell me boldly
That someday
Well, I’ll be through

Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die

Well, that’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day