“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Rubber Ball” is a pop song released in 1960 by the American singer Bobby Vee. The song became one of his early hits and contributed to his rise as a prominent figure in the pop music scene of the early 1960s. Known for its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, “Rubber Ball” encapsulates the youthful energy and vibrant sound that characterized much of the music from this era. The song’s playful lyrics and bouncy tempo made it a favorite among fans and helped establish Bobby Vee’s career in the music industry.
About The Composition
- Title: Rubber Ball (1960)
- Composer: Gene Pitney and Aaron Schroeder
- Premiere Date: 1960
- Album/Opus/Collection: Bobby Vee
- Genre: Pop
Background
“Rubber Ball” was released as a single in late 1960 and quickly gained popularity, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It was also a hit in the United Kingdom, where it reached number four on the UK Singles Chart. The song was written by Gene Pitney and Aaron Schroeder, both notable songwriters of that time. Bobby Vee’s rendition of “Rubber Ball” was produced by the renowned producer Snuff Garrett, who played a significant role in shaping the sound of many pop hits during the 1960s.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Rubber Ball” is characterized by its lively tempo and catchy melody. The song features upbeat instrumentation, including prominent use of guitars and percussion, which complements Vee’s energetic vocal delivery. The production is crisp and polished, typical of early 1960s pop recordings, and it showcases the influence of rock and roll in its rhythm and structure.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Rubber Ball” revolve around themes of resilience and bouncing back from adversity, much like a rubber ball. The playful and repetitive nature of the lyrics adds to the song’s infectious appeal, making it easy for listeners to sing along. The song uses the metaphor of a rubber ball to convey a message of perseverance and light-heartedness.
Performance History
“Rubber Ball” has been performed by Bobby Vee in numerous concerts and television appearances throughout his career. Its popularity during the 1960s solidified its place as a staple in his live performances, and it remains one of his signature songs. The song’s lively nature made it a crowd favorite, often evoking enthusiastic responses from audiences.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “Rubber Ball” is evident in its enduring popularity and frequent appearances in media. It has been featured in various films and television shows, reflecting its status as a quintessential example of early 1960s pop music. The song’s catchy hook and memorable lyrics have made it a lasting favorite among fans of the era.
Legacy
Today, “Rubber Ball” is remembered as one of Bobby Vee’s classic hits and a representation of the vibrant pop music scene of the 1960s. Its cheerful and upbeat sound continues to resonate with listeners, highlighting its enduring appeal. The song’s legacy lives on as part of the broader catalog of early rock and pop music that shaped the musical landscape of the time.
Conclusion
“Rubber Ball” by Bobby Vee is a delightful piece of pop music history that captures the essence of the early 1960s. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics make it a timeless classic worth revisiting. Exploring Bobby Vee’s discography offers insight into the musical trends of the era and the enduring charm of his work.
Video
Lyrics
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
I’m like a rubber ball
Baby that’s all that I am to you (bouncy, bouncy) (bouncy, bouncy)
Just a rubber ball
‘Cause you think you can be true to two (bouncy, bouncy) (bouncy, bouncy)
You bounce my heart around (you don’t even put her down)
And like a rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
If you stretch my love till it’s thin enough to tear
I’ll just stretch my arms to reach you anywhere
And like a rubber ball, I’ll come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I’ll come bouncin’ back to you
You bounce my heart around (you don’t even put her down)
And like a rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy
Bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy
I’m like a rubber band
When on my shoulder you do tap, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy
Just a rubber band
Because my heartstrings, they just snap, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy
You go and squeeze me till I’m all aflame
(She calls you by some other guy’s name)
But like a rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to yo
Rubber ball, I’ll come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I’ll come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball