“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a warm summer evening in the 1950s, when jukeboxes were the heart of social gatherings, spinning melodies that united people across dance floors. Among those tunes, “Come And Go With Me” by The Del Vikings stood out—a harmonious invitation to joy and companionship. It’s a song that encapsulates the spirit of its era, blending doo-wop’s sweetness with a timeless message of togetherness.
About The Composition
- Title: Come And Go With Me
- Composer: Clarence Quick
- Premiere Date: 1956
- Album/Opus/Collection: Released as a single, later included in compilations.
- Genre: Doo-wop
Background
“Come And Go With Me” was penned by Clarence Quick, a bass singer of The Del Vikings, a group that emerged from the unlikely setting of the U.S. Air Force. Formed by servicemen, The Del Vikings brought a unique blend of voices and camaraderie to the doo-wop scene. Released in 1956, the song quickly became a hit, showcasing the power of harmony-driven music during a transformative time in popular culture. Its smooth, inviting lyrics and infectious rhythm made it an instant classic, resonating with audiences eager for optimistic, danceable tunes in post-war America.
Musical Style
The song’s signature feature is its tight vocal harmonies, a hallmark of doo-wop. Opening with a buoyant call-and-response pattern, the melody is supported by a rhythm section that underscores the track’s upbeat energy. The bassline, played with a smooth but steady pulse, anchors the harmonies, while the tenor voices weave a lyrical interplay that feels both lighthearted and sincere. Its simple structure—a repetition of verses and chorus—makes it instantly memorable and accessible.
Lyrics
The lyrics are straightforward yet heartfelt, expressing a longing for connection and companionship. Lines like “Come and go with me, please don’t send me way beyond the sea” evoke a sense of vulnerability, while the repetitive chorus reinforces the song’s universal appeal. It’s a plea wrapped in charm, where the emotional simplicity matches the musical elegance.
Performance History
After its release, “Come And Go With Me” soared on the charts, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard pop chart and No. 3 on the R&B chart. Over the decades, it has been performed by countless artists and featured in nostalgic retrospectives of the doo-wop era. Notably, it has appeared in films like American Graffiti and Stand By Me, reinforcing its role as a cultural time capsule of the 1950s.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its initial success, “Come And Go With Me” has remained an enduring symbol of the doo-wop genre. It introduced broader audiences to The Del Vikings, one of the first racially integrated vocal groups to gain widespread acclaim. Its inclusion in movies, television shows, and commercials has kept the song alive for new generations, highlighting its universal themes of love and longing.
Legacy
Decades later, “Come And Go With Me” continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia and joy. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless quality of its melody and message. Whether it’s played at a retro-themed event or rediscovered by younger audiences, the song remains a bridge to the past, celebrating the unifying power of music.
Conclusion
“Come And Go With Me” is more than a song; it’s a celebration of harmony, hope, and human connection. Its uplifting rhythm and heartfelt lyrics invite listeners to step back in time and embrace the simplicity of shared joy. If you haven’t yet experienced its magic, I recommend listening to The Del Vikings’ original recording—it’s a melodic journey you won’t forget.
Video
Lyrics
Dom-dom dom-dom dom-de-doo-be
Dom dom dom dom dom dom-de-doo-be
Dom dom dom dom dom dom-be-doo-be
Dom woa-woa-woa-woah
Dom-dom dom-dom dom-de-doo-be
Dom dom dom dom dom dom-de-doo-be
Dom dom dom dom dom dom-be-doo-be
Dom woa-woa-woa-woah
Well I love, love you darlin’
Come and go with me
Come home with me
Way beyond the sea
I need you darlin’
So come go with me
Come, come, come, come
Come into my heart
Tell me darlin’
We will never part
I need you darlin’
So come go with me
Yes, I need you
Yes, I really need you
Please say you’ll never leave me
Well, say you never
Yes, you really never
You never give me a chance
Come, come, come, come
Come into my heart
Tell me darlin’
We will never part
I need you darlin’
So come go with me
(Yeah)
Yes, I need you
Yes, I really need you
Please say you’ll never leave me
Well, say you never
Yes, you really never
You never give me a chance
Love you darlin’
Come and go with me
Come home with me
Way beyond the sea
I need you darlin’
So come go with me
Come on go with me
Come on go with me