“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

Bobby Vee, one of the quintessential voices of the early 1960s, brought a youthful innocence and warmth to the pop music scene. His hit song “Come Back When You Grow Up” captures the essence of teenage longing and the universal journey toward maturity. Vee’s music, characterized by its catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, continues to resonate with audiences, ensuring his place in the pantheon of pop icons.

About The Composition

  • Title: Come Back When You Grow Up
  • Composer: Martha Sharp
  • Premiere Date: 1967
  • Album/Opus/Collection: Come Back When You Grow Up
  • Genre: Pop, Rock

Background

Bobby Vee’s rise to fame began under unusual circumstances, filling in for Buddy Holly after his tragic plane crash. His career quickly took off, and by the time “Come Back When You Grow Up” was released in 1967, Vee was a household name. This song marked a significant point in his career, as it was his last Top 10 hit in the Billboard charts. The track captures the tension between youthful innocence and the desire for more grown-up experiences, a theme that resonated deeply during the cultural shifts of the 1960s.

Musical Style

The song “Come Back When You Grow Up” features a classic pop-rock arrangement typical of the 1960s, with a catchy melody and simple, yet effective, chord progressions. The instrumentation is upbeat, featuring jangly guitars and a steady drumbeat that supports Vee’s earnest vocal delivery.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “Come Back When You Grow Up” explore the theme of youthful impatience and the inevitable maturation process. It tells the story of a young girl who is eager to grow up and move on to more serious relationships. The song’s narrative captures the bittersweetness of adolescence, a universal theme that has endeared it to listeners for generations.

Performance History

Bobby Vee performed “Come Back When You Grow Up” on numerous television shows and live venues during the peak of his career. The song’s popularity ensured it became a staple of his performances, highlighting his ability to connect with audiences through relatable storytelling and emotive singing.

Cultural Impact

“Come Back When You Grow Up” has maintained its cultural relevance, frequently appearing on oldies radio stations and compilation albums that celebrate the best of 1960s pop music. Its themes have been referenced in various media, underscoring the song’s lasting influence on popular culture.

Legacy

The enduring popularity of “Come Back When You Grow Up” is a testament to Bobby Vee’s impact on the music industry. The song continues to be celebrated for its relatable themes and catchy melody, ensuring that Vee’s legacy as a pop icon endures well into the present day.

Conclusion

Bobby Vee’s “Come Back When You Grow Up” remains a delightful exploration of youthful dreams and the passage of time. Its timeless appeal invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys of growth and maturity. For those who appreciate the golden era of pop music, diving deeper into Vee’s catalog promises a rewarding experience.

Video

Lyrics

Come back when you grow up, girl
You’re still livin’ in a paper-doll world
Livin’ ain’t easy, lovin’s twice as tough
So come back, baby, when you grow up

You look real good like a woman now
Your mind hasn’t gotten the message somehow
So if you can’t take it ‘n’ the goin’ gets rough
Come back, baby, when you grow up

I want you girl but your wide-eyed innocence
Has really messed up my mind, yeah
I’d rather you get your very first heartbreak
Somewhere else along the line

Come back when you grow up, girl
You’re still livin’ in a paper-doll world
Some day be a woman ready to love
Come back, baby, when you grow up

Come back when you grow up, girl
You’ve still got a lotta time left in the world
You’ll some day be a woman ready to love
Come back, baby, when you grow up