About the song
“Rubber Ball” is a timeless classic that catapulted Bobby Vee to international stardom in the early 1960s. Released in 1961, this upbeat tune was the record that marked Vee’s transition from a local sensation to a global phenomenon. Recorded on August 12, 1960, at United in Hollywood, “Rubber Ball” was produced by Thomas “Snuff” Garrett, arranged by Ernie Freeman, and co-written by Gene Pitney and Aaron Schroeder at the iconic Brill Building in New York.
The song’s success can be attributed to its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and Vee’s signature vocals. “Rubber Ball” was Vee’s fifth US single release, and it made a significant impact on the Billboard charts, peaking at number six. The song’s popularity extended beyond the US borders, reaching number four in the UK and Canada, and even becoming Vee’s only number one record in Australia, where it stayed at the top for three weeks.
The song’s enduring appeal has led to numerous cover versions, including a notable rendition by British singer Marty Wilde, which reached number nine on the charts in 1961. “Rubber Ball” is a testament to Vee’s talent and the era’s musical landscape, and its influence can still be felt today. With its nostalgic charm and timeless melody, “Rubber Ball” remains a beloved classic that continues to delight audiences of all ages.
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