Buddy Holly – Peggy Sue – 1957

About The Song

“Peggy Sue” is a rock and roll classic by Buddy Holly, released in 1957. Known for its catchy melody, Holly’s distinctive vocal style, and the prominent drumbeat, the song is a quintessential example of 1950s rock and roll. “Peggy Sue” remains one of Buddy Holly’s most celebrated and enduring hits.

Five Facts:

Inspiration for the Song: The song was inspired by Peggy Sue Gerron, a friend of Buddy Holly’s then-girlfriend and future wife, Maria Elena Santiago. Originally titled “Cindy Lou” after Holly’s niece, the song’s title was changed to “Peggy Sue” at the suggestion of the Crickets’ drummer, Jerry Allison, who was dating Peggy Sue at the time.
Innovative Use of Sound: “Peggy Sue” is notable for its innovative use of sound. The distinctive drumbeat, known as the “pounding” effect, was achieved by having drummer Jerry Allison play his drumsticks on a cardboard box along with a snare drum. This unique sound became a defining element of the song.
Chart Success: The song was a commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also became one of Buddy Holly’s best-known and most enduring hits. The catchy melody and energetic performance contributed to its widespread popularity.
Follow-Up Sequel: Holly followed “Peggy Sue” with a sequel titled “Peggy Sue Got Married” in 1958. The sequel explores the idea of Peggy Sue’s later life and was released after Buddy Holly’s tragic death in 1959. The song was later popularized by the Crickets.
Cultural Impact: “Peggy Sue” has had a lasting impact on popular culture. It has been covered by numerous artists, and its influence can be heard in subsequent rock and roll and pop music. The song’s catchy hooks and Holly’s distinctive vocal style continue to resonate with music fans.

Video

Lyrics

If you knew Peggy Sue
Then you’d know why I feel blue
Without Peggy, my Peggy Sue
Oh well, I love you, gal
Yes, I love you Peggy Sue

Peggy Sue, Peggy Sue
Oh, how my heart yearns for you
Oh, Peggy, my Peggy Sue
Oh well, I love you, gal
Yes, I love you Peggy Sue

Peggy Sue, Peggy Sue
Pretty, pretty, pretty, pretty, Peggy Sue
Oh, Peggy, my Peggy Sue
Oh well, I love you, gal
And I need you, Peggy Sue

I love you, Peggy Sue
With a love so rare and true
Oh, Peggy, my Peggy Sue
Well, I love you, gal
And I want you, Peggy Sue

Peggy Sue, Peggy Sue,
Pretty, pretty, pretty, pretty, Peggy Sue
Oh, Peggy, my Peggy Sue
Oh well, I love you, gal
Yes, I need you, Peggy Sue

I love you, Peggy Sue
With a love so rare and true
Oh Peggy, my Peggy Sue
Oh well, I love you, gal
And I want you, Peggy Sue

Oh well, I love you gal
And I want you Peggy Sue