Buddy Holly & The Crickets “That’ll Be The Day” (1957)
“That’ll Be the Day” by Buddy Holly & The Crickets is one of the quintessential tracks of the 1950s rock and roll era. Released in 1957, the song became a symbol of youthful optimism mixed with the heartache of romance. The song’s origins trace back to 1956, inspired when Buddy Holly was watching the John Wayne movie “The Searchers.” In the film, Wayne’s character frequently said the line “That’ll be the day,” which stuck with Holly. This simple phrase, carrying with it a weight of irony and foreboding, became the impetus for a song that would define Holly’s early career.
Buddy Holly co-wrote “That’ll Be the Day” with Jerry Allison, the drummer for The Crickets. Holly was known for his collaborative approach to songwriting, often working closely with his band members and local talents in Lubbock, Texas. The song was initially recorded in Nashville but didn’t capture the energy Holly envisioned. It was only after re-recording it with Norman Petty in Clovis, New Mexico, that the song received its signature sound. This version, featuring Holly’s distinctive vocals, Allison’s percussive prowess, Joe B. Mauldin’s solid bass, and Niki Sullivan’s rhythm guitar, was electrifying.
The structure of “That’ll Be the Day” reflects the emerging rock and roll style that would become Holly’s trademark. The song opens with a catchy guitar riff, followed by verses that blend pop sensibilities with the raw edge of rock. Lyrically, “That’ll Be the Day” touches on themes of love and heartbreak, couched in witty, almost nonchalant defiance. The chorus promises eventual reunion or retribution with the repeated line “That’ll be the day, when I die,” embedding both a romantic and existential narrative thread. Holly’s vocal delivery, with its hiccupping style and clear, earnest tone, added a new dimension of expression to rock music.
Live performances of “That’ll Be the Day” were met with much enthusiasm and reportedly helped solidify The Crickets’ reputation on the touring circuit. Audiences were captivated by Holly’s onstage charisma and the cohesive energy of the band. It was through live shows that the group was able to further hone their sound and gain widespread popularity. This song also became a staple in Holly’s setlist, establishing his presence in the rock and roll pantheon alongside contemporaries like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry.
The impact of “That’ll Be the Day” was profound both within and beyond the music industry. As one of the first major hits of Buddy Holly’s career, it paved the way for future successes and cemented his influence on genres ranging from rock to pop. The song topped the Billboard charts, marking The Crickets as a powerful force in shaping the direction of American music during that decade. It influenced countless musicians, including The Beatles, who famously recorded the song as part of their earliest sessions, a testament to its enduring appeal and inspiration.
Buddy Holly’s tragically short career would be defined by innovative songwriting and pioneering studio techniques, but “That’ll Be the Day” remains one of his most celebrated accomplishments. Its enduring legacy is evident in its regular inclusion in films, TV shows, and commercials, continuing to introduce new generations to Holly’s work. It has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their interpretation to the classic track, further embedding it in popular culture.
Culturally, “That’ll Be the Day” heralded the arrival of rock and roll as a dominant force in the 1950s. It challenged the social norms of the time, with its rebellious undertones and energetic sound encouraging a shift in youth culture. This was a period marked by significant changes, and music like Holly’s provided a soundtrack to the aspirations and frustrations of a burgeoning young audience. The song exemplifies the optimism and boldness of the era, capturing the spirit of a generation on the threshold of social revolution.
Buddy Holly’s “That’ll Be the Day,” with its infectious rhythm and unforgettable melody, set a new standard for hit songs during his era. It demonstrated how the rock and roll genre could harness traditional themes within a modern soundscape. Holly’s ability to blend sincerity with a playful edge resonated deeply with listeners, making the song a timeless piece of musical history. To this day, “That’ll Be the Day” is celebrated not only as a milestone in Buddy Holly’s career but also as a cornerstone of rock music history.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eq9FCBatl3A
