“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Little Star” is a doo-wop song by The Elegants, released in 1958. The track quickly rose to prominence, becoming a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Its simplistic yet captivating melody, inspired by the nursery rhyme “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” allowed it to connect with a wide audience, thus cementing its place in the annals of rock and roll history.
The Elegants, a group from Staten Island, New York, achieved significant success with “Little Star.” The song’s appeal lay in its catchy tune and relatable lyrics, which resonated with the youthful spirit of the late 1950s. By capturing the essence of teenage love and dreams, The Elegants created a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated today.
About The Composition
- Title: Little Star
- Composer: Vito Picone and Arthur Venosa
- Premiere Date: 1958
- Album/Opus/Collection: Single release
- Genre: Doo-wop
Background
“Little Star” was inspired by the melody of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” a popular children’s nursery rhyme. The Elegants, led by Vito Picone, crafted a doo-wop arrangement that transformed this simple tune into a dynamic and appealing song for the teenage audience of the 1950s. The track’s success was a testament to the innovative spirit of The Elegants, who managed to blend traditional melodies with contemporary musical styles.
The song was released under ABC-Paramount Records and quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. This success was remarkable considering The Elegants were a relatively unknown group at the time. “Little Star” became their most significant hit, overshadowing their subsequent releases and securing their place in the history of popular music.
Musical Style
“Little Star” is characterized by its doo-wop style, featuring a simple yet effective harmonic structure. The song utilizes smooth vocal harmonies and a catchy refrain, which are hallmarks of the genre. The Elegants’ performance is marked by a clear lead vocal line, supported by harmonious backing vocals, creating a rich and engaging sound that was typical of late 1950s doo-wop music.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Little Star” center around themes of longing and desire, drawing a parallel between the beauty of a star and the object of the singer’s affection. This romantic imagery, coupled with the familiar melody, creates a nostalgic and endearing song that appeals to listeners’ emotions.
Performance History
After its release, “Little Star” was performed by The Elegants on various television programs and live venues, helping to solidify the group’s reputation. The song’s popularity led to numerous covers by other artists, although none achieved the same level of success as the original. The Elegants’ live performances, characterized by their dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess, contributed to the enduring popularity of “Little Star.”
Cultural Impact
“Little Star” has been featured in several films and television shows, reflecting its lasting appeal and influence on popular culture. Its simple yet effective melody has made it a staple in various media, often used to evoke the nostalgic atmosphere of the 1950s. The song’s success also helped to popularize the doo-wop genre, influencing countless artists and bands in the following decades.
Legacy
Today, “Little Star” remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its charming simplicity and timeless appeal. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to The Elegants’ contribution to the evolution of doo-wop and rock and roll music. “Little Star” continues to be played on oldies radio stations and is cherished by music enthusiasts who appreciate its historical significance.
Conclusion
“Little Star” by The Elegants is a quintessential example of the doo-wop genre, showcasing the innovative spirit of the late 1950s music scene. Its lasting impact and widespread appeal make it a worthwhile listen for anyone interested in the history of popular music. I encourage you to explore this classic track and experience the charm and nostalgia it offers.
Video
Lyrics
Where are you little star?
(Where are you?)
Whoa oh, oh, oh-uh-oh
Ratta ta ta too-ooh-ooh
Whoa oh, oh, oh-uh-oh
Ratta ta ta too-ooh-ooh
Twinkle twinkle little star
How I wonder where you are
Wish I may, wish I might
Make this wish come true tonight
Searched all over for a love
You’re the one I’m thinkin’ of
Whoah oh, oh, oh-uh-oh
Ratta ta ta too-ooh-ooh
Whoah oh, oh, oh-uh-oh
Ratta ta ta too-ooh-ooh
Twinkle twinkle little star
How I wonder where you are
High above the clouds somewhere
Send me down a love to share
Whoah oh, oh, oh-uh-oh
Ratta ta ta too-ooh-ooh
Whoah oh, oh, oh-uh-oh
Ratta ta ta too-ooh-ooh
Whoa-uh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh
Oh there you a-a-re
High ab-o-ove
Oh-oh sta-a-are
Send me a lo-o-o-o-ove
Oh there you a-a-re
Li-I-ighting you-up the sky
I need a lo-o-o-ove
Oh me-oh, me-oh, my-why-why-why
Twinkle twinkle little star
How I wonder where you are
Wish I may, wish I might
Make this wish come true tonight
Whoa oh, oh, oh-uh-oh
Ratta ta ta too-ooh-ooh
Whoah oh, oh, oh-uh-oh
Ratta ta ta too-ooh-ooh
Oh ra, ta, ta
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
There you are little star! (ooh)