About the Song
Few songs in the history of rock ‘n’ roll are as instantly recognizable as “That’ll Be the Day” by Buddy Holly and The Crickets. Released in 1957, the track marked a pivotal moment in music history, embodying the rebellious spirit, optimism, and cultural shake-up of the 1950s. More than just a catchy tune, “That’ll Be the Day” solidified Buddy Holly’s place as a pioneering force in the genre and set the stage for countless artists who followed. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins, impact, and lasting legacy of this classic song and why it still resonates today.
The Origins of “That’ll Be the Day”
Buddy Holly, born Charles Hardin Holley, hailed from Lubbock, Texas, and was deeply inspired by early rock ‘n’ roll and rhythm and blues music. Before forming The Crickets, Holly had already been pursuing music for several years. However, it wasn’t until he met Jerry Allison, drummer and fellow member of The Crickets, that Holly’s style began to take its iconic shape.
The song’s title was inspired by a line from the 1956 John Wayne film The Searchers. In the movie, Wayne’s character frequently says, “That’ll be the day” in a sarcastic tone. The phrase stuck with Holly, and he began using it himself. Eventually, he and Allison decided to create a song around the phrase.
“That’ll Be the Day” was initially recorded in 1956 but was not immediately released due to dissatisfaction from Holly and his producer. However, in 1957, Holly and The Crickets revisited the song in a studio session in New Mexico. This version, with its polished sound and Holly’s distinct vocal delivery, became the version we know today. It was released by Brunswick Records, credited to The Crickets rather than Holly as a solo artist due to record label constraints, and the song quickly gained popularity.
Musical Composition and Style
“That’ll Be the Day” is known for its catchy, straightforward rock ‘n’ roll arrangement, which includes jangling guitar chords, a steady backbeat, and a bluesy bassline. What really set it apart, however, was Buddy Holly’s vocal style and use of inflection. Holly’s voice on this track is both smooth and assertive, blending elements of country and rock ‘n’ roll. His distinctive hiccup-like vocal delivery gave the song a unique charm, which would become a hallmark of his style and influence generations of vocalists.
The song’s structure is relatively simple, following a verse-chorus form, but the arrangement and instrumental choices contribute to its timeless feel. Holly’s guitar solo in the middle of the track adds an element of grit, capturing the youthful energy that characterized the early rock ‘n’ roll movement. Jerry Allison’s drumming, punctuated with crisp snare hits, gives the song a danceable rhythm, making it a staple at parties and dance halls in the late 1950s.
Themes of Love, Heartache, and Independence
The lyrics of “That’ll Be the Day” revolve around a classic rock ‘n’ roll theme: love and heartbreak. The song’s narrator confronts a lover who threatens to leave, to which Holly’s character responds defiantly, repeating, “That’ll be the day when you say goodbye.” This attitude — simultaneously hurt and defiant — is part of what made Holly relatable to young audiences. At a time when teenagers were beginning to assert their independence and navigate complex emotions, Holly’s words and style struck a chord.
The defiance expressed in the lyrics also resonated culturally. In 1950s America, rock ‘n’ roll itself was often seen as an expression of youthful rebellion. “That’ll Be the Day” tapped into that energy by turning the pain of potential heartbreak into a statement of independence. Rather than succumbing to despair, the narrator pushes back, turning vulnerability into strength. This blend of vulnerability and toughness became a theme in rock music, influencing countless artists and listeners alike.
Chart Success and Cultural Impact
Upon its release in May 1957, “That’ll Be the Day” became an immediate success. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the UK Singles Chart, cementing Buddy Holly and The Crickets’ place in rock ‘n’ roll history. The song not only helped establish Holly’s career but also demonstrated the commercial viability of rock ‘n’ roll, which was still a relatively new genre at the time. Its success paved the way for future rock bands and helped to shift popular music away from big band and swing music, which had dominated in the previous decade.
In addition to its chart success, “That’ll Be the Day” became a staple of rock ‘n’ roll culture. It was one of the first songs that showcased how rock music could appeal to a wide audience, bridging generational gaps and transcending racial divides. Buddy Holly’s approachable, clean-cut image also made him more palatable to parents who were wary of the rebellious nature of rock ‘n’ roll, helping the genre gain acceptance in mainstream culture.
The Legacy of Buddy Holly and “That’ll Be the Day”
Buddy Holly’s career was tragically cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1959, just two years after “That’ll Be the Day” topped the charts. Despite his brief time in the spotlight, Holly left an indelible mark on the music world. His innovative guitar techniques, vocal style, and songwriting have influenced generations of artists, from The Beatles to Bruce Springsteen. John Lennon and Paul McCartney famously cited Buddy Holly and “That’ll Be the Day” as a major influence on their decision to pursue music.
“That’ll Be the Day” remains an enduring anthem of rock ‘n’ roll’s golden age, a reminder of a time when the genre was fresh, rebellious, and full of potential. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and authenticity. Decades later, it still has the power to make listeners tap their feet, sing along, and remember the youthful spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.
Why “That’ll Be the Day” Still Resonates
The enduring popularity of “That’ll Be the Day” can be attributed to its universal themes and Holly’s magnetic performance. The song captures the excitement, defiance, and heartbreak of young love, emotions that are as relevant today as they were in 1957. Its blend of rock, blues, and country elements creates a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. For fans of classic rock, the song is a portal to a bygone era; for younger listeners, it’s an introduction to one of the genre’s founding fathers.
In a world where musical trends change rapidly, the appeal of Buddy Holly’s “That’ll Be the Day” endures. It reminds us of a simpler time, but it also highlights the universal power of music to convey emotion, tell stories, and bring people together. More than six decades later, “That’ll Be the Day” is more than just a song — it’s a timeless reminder of the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll, and of Buddy Holly’s lasting legacy as one of its true pioneers.
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Lyrics: That’ll Be The Day
Well, that’ll be the day when you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day when you make me cry
You say you gonna leave, you know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day when I dieWell, you give me all your lovin’ and your turtle dovin’
All your hugs and kisses and your money, too
Well, you know you love me, baby
Still you tell me, maybe
That some day, well, I’ll be blueWell, that’ll be the day when you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day when you make me cry
You say you gonna leave, you know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day when I dieWell, that’ll be the day when you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day when you make me cry
You say you gonna leave, you know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day when I dieWell, when Cupid shot his dart
He shot it at your heart
So if we ever part and I leave you
You say you told me, an’ you told me boldly
That someday, well, I’ll be blueWell, that’ll be the day when you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day when you make me cry
You say you gonna leave, you know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day when I dieWell that’ll be the day, ooh hoo
That’ll be the day, ooh hoo
That’ll be the day, ooh hoo
That’ll be the day