Introduction
It’s Late is a timeless rock and roll song that captures the urgency of young love. Written by Dorsey Burnette, it was first recorded by him in 1958 but remained unreleased until it appeared on a compilation album by Imperial Records in 1980. However, it gained widespread recognition when Ricky Nelson released it as a single in February 1959. The song reached number 3 in the UK, number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, and number 30 on the R&B chart that year. It also features on Ricky Nelson’s 1959 album *Ricky Sings Again*.
The Story: In It’s Late, Ricky Nelson sings about a couple who find themselves in a predicament. They’ve been out together for too long, and now they’re racing against time to get home before curfew. The urgency is palpable as they face potential consequences from her parents. Let’s explore some of the key lyrics:
It’s late (it’s late)
We gotta get on home
It’s late (it’s late)
We’ve been gone too long
The couple realizes they’ve overstayed their welcome outside and need to head home immediately. But there’s more at stake:
Too bad (too bad)
We shoulda checked our time
Can’t phone (can’t phone)
We done spent every dime
They regret not keeping track of time and have exhausted their resources. The urgency intensifies:
It’s late (it’s late)
We’re ’bout to run outta gas
It’s late (it’s late)
We gotta get home fast
Their car is running low on fuel, adding to their dilemma. They can’t afford any delays:
Can’t speed (can’t speed)
We’re in a slow-down zone
Baby, look at that clock,
Why can’t it be wrong?
The clock seems to mock them, ticking away relentlessly. If only they’d left earlier:
If we coulda left home at a quarter to nine,
Woulda had fun and plenty of time
We got started just a little bit late,
Hope this won’t be our last date.
The song captures youthful impatience, the thrill of forbidden love, and the fear of getting caught—all set against an irresistible rock and roll beat.
Musical Influence: It’s Late shares thematic similarities with the Everly Brothers’ hit “Wake Up Little Susie.” Both songs revolve around young couples facing curfew-related challenges. The Everly Brothers’ tune also became a classic of its own, resonating with audiences during that era.
In summary, “It’s Late” is more than just a catchy rock song; it encapsulates the timeless struggle of young love against external.
Did You Know?
Chart Success: “It’s Late” by Ricky Nelson is one of his most successful singles, reaching the number nine spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1959. The song’s popularity solidified Nelson’s status as a rock and roll sensation during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Songwriting Duo: “It’s Late” was written by Dorsey Burnette and his brother Johnny Burnette, who were both talented musicians in their own right. The Burnette brothers were known for their contributions to rockabilly music and had several hits of their own before writing songs for other artists, including Ricky Nelson.
Catchy Riff: One of the standout features of “It’s Late” is its catchy guitar riff, which instantly grabs the listener’s attention. The riff, played by renowned session guitarist James Burton, adds a dynamic and energetic element to the song, setting the stage for Nelson’s emotive vocals.
Teenage Anthem: The lyrics of “It’s Late” resonate with teenagers and young adults, capturing the angst and urgency of young love. Nelson’s soulful delivery and heartfelt performance convey the sense of longing and desperation expressed in the lyrics, making it a relatable anthem for youth of the era.
Cultural Impact: “It’s Late” remains a classic rock and roll song that continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal. Its memorable melody, evocative lyrics, and Nelson’s charismatic presence ensure its enduring popularity among fans of 1950s music and rockabilly enthusiasts alike.
Video:
Lyrics:
It’s late, it’s lateWe gotta get on homeIt’s late, it’s lateWe’ve been gone too longToo bad, too badWe shoulda checked our timeCan’t phone, can’t phoneWe done spent every dimeIt’s late, it’s lateWe’re ’bout to run outta gasIt’s late, it’s lateWe gotta get home fastCan’t speed, can’t speedWe’re in a slow-down zoneBaby, look at that clockWhy can’t it be wrongIf we coulda left home at a quarter to nineWoulda had fun and plenty of timeWe got started just a little bit lateHope this won’t be our last dateLook up, look upIs that the moon we see?Can’t be, can’t beLooks like the sun to meIt’s late, it’s lateI hate to face your dadToo bad, too badI know he’s gonna be madIt’s late, it’s lateWe gotta get on homeIt’s late, it’s lateWe’ve been gone too longIt’s late, it’s lateWe’re ’bout to run outta gasIt’s late, it’s lateWe gotta get home fastCan’t speed, can’t speedWe’re in a slow-down zoneBaby, look at that clockWhy can’t it be wrongIf we coulda left home at a quarter to nineWoulda had fun and plenty of timeWe got started just a little bit lateHope this won’t be our last dateLook up, look upIs that the moon we see?Can’t be, can’t beLooks like the sun to meIt’s late, it’s lateI hate to face your dadToo bad, too badI know he’s gonna be madIt’s late, it’s lateWe gotta get on homeIt’s late, it’s lateWe’ve been gone too longIt’s late