About The Song
“Come On, Let’s Go” is a song by Ritchie Valens, released in 1958. Valens, a young and talented musician of Mexican-American heritage, became a significant figure in the history of rock music despite his tragically short career. Born Richard Steven Valenzuela, Ritchie Valens was only 17 years old when he recorded “Come On, Let’s Go,” but his influence on the burgeoning genre of rock and roll was immense.
The song was written by Ritchie Valens in collaboration with his producer, Bob Keane, who discovered Valens and signed him to Del-Fi Records. It was recorded in July 1958 and released shortly afterward. “Come On, Let’s Go” is an upbeat, energetic track that reflects the youthful excitement and carefree spirit of the late 1950s. The song features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and Valens’ passionate vocals, capturing the essence of rock and roll’s early years.
Lyrically, the song is simple but effective, expressing eagerness and excitement for a romantic rendezvous. The lyrics convey an invitation to dance and enjoy life together, making it relatable to young audiences of the time. Its infectious energy and straightforward charm made it a hit, resonating with fans across different backgrounds.
“Come On, Let’s Go” was one of Valens’ first major hits, reaching No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Although it didn’t climb as high as some of his later songs, such as “Donna” or “La Bamba,” it played a crucial role in establishing his career. The song’s success also demonstrated the increasing crossover appeal of rock and roll, breaking barriers between traditional pop and the burgeoning sounds influenced by rhythm and blues.
The track remains a timeless example of early rock and roll and has been covered by numerous artists, including The Ramones and Los Lobos. These versions highlight its enduring influence and appeal. Tragically, Valens’ career was cut short when he died in a plane crash on February 3, 1959, a day later memorialized as “The Day the Music Died.”
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Lyrics
Well, come on, let’s go, let’s go, let’s go, little darlin’
And tell me that you’re never leaving
Come on, come on, let’s go
Again, again and again
Well, now, swing me, swing me all the way down there
Come on, let’s go, little darlin’
Let’s go, let’s go again once more
Well, I love you so, dear, and I’ll never let you go
Come on, baby, so, oh pretty baby, I-I love you so
Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go, little sweetheart
Then we can always be together
Come on, come on
Let’s go again
I love you so, dear, and I’ll never let you go
Come on, baby, so
Oh, pretty baby, I-I love you so
Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go, little darlin’
They’re dancing and we belong here
Come on, come on, let’s go
Again, again, and again, and again
Again, again, and again, and again
Again, again, and again, and again
Again, again, and again, and again…