About the song
Buddy Holly & The Crickets’ performance of “Oh, Boy!” on *The Ed Sullivan Show* is a significant moment in rock ‘n’ roll history. The performance took place on January 26, 1958, and it showcased the energy and talent of a young Buddy Holly, who was quickly becoming one of the most influential figures in early rock music.
“Oh, Boy!” was written by Sonny West, Bill Tilghman, and Norman Petty, and was released as a single in 1957. The song became an instant hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Holly’s distinctive vocals made it a favorite among fans and cemented its place as a classic in rock ‘n’ roll.
Appearing on *The Ed Sullivan Show* was a big deal for any musician at the time. The show was one of the most popular television programs in America, and a performance on it could make or break a career. For Buddy Holly & The Crickets, their appearance was a chance to reach a nationwide audience and solidify their status as rock ‘n’ roll stars.
Holly’s performance of “Oh, Boy!” on *The Ed Sullivan Show* was electric. Despite Sullivan’s request for Holly to tone down the performance, Holly and his band delivered the song with the same enthusiasm and energy that had made them famous. Holly’s signature black-framed glasses, his Fender Stratocaster, and his natural charisma all added to the performance’s appeal.
This performance is often remembered for its raw energy and how it captured the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll during its early days. It also highlighted Holly’s influence on future generations of musicians. His innovative approach to music, combining elements of rock, country, and rhythm and blues, helped shape the sound of rock ‘n’ roll and inspired countless artists who followed in his footsteps.
Tragically, Buddy Holly’s career was cut short just over a year after this performance when he died in a plane crash in February 1959. However, his legacy lives on, and performances like “Oh, Boy!” on *The Ed Sullivan Show* continue to remind us of his immense talent and the lasting impact he had on the music world. This moment remains a cherished memory for fans and an important chapter in the history of rock ‘n’ roll.
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Lyrics
All of my love, all of my kissin’
You don’t know what you’ve been a-missin’
Oh boy, when you’re with me, ho boy
The world can see that you were meant for me
All of my life I’ve been a-waitin’
Tonight there’ll be no hesitatin’
Oh boy, when you’re with me, ho boy
The world can see that you were meant for me
Stars appear and shadows a-fallin’
You can hear my heart callin’
And a little bit of lovin’ makes everything right
I’m gonna see my baby tonight
All of my love, all of my kissin’
You don’t know what you’ve been a-missin’
Oh boy, when you’re with me, ho boy
The world can see that you were meant for me
Dum di dum dum, ho boy
Dum di dum dum, ho boy
All of my love, all of my kissin’
You don’t know what you’ve been a-missin’
Oh boy, when you’re with me, ho boy
The world can see that you were meant for me
All of my life I’ve been a-waitin’
Tonight there’ll be no hesitatin’
Oh boy, when you’re with me, ho boy
The world can see that you were meant for me
Stars appear and the shadows a-fallin’
You can hear my heart callin’
And a little bit of lovin’ makes everything right
And I’m gonna see my baby tonight
All of my love, all of my kissin’
You don’t know what you’ve been a-missin’
Oh boy, when you’re with me, ho boy
The world can see that you were meant for me