About the song
“Runaround Sue,” a classic rock and roll anthem in a modified doo-wop style, soared to fame as a US No. 1 Hot 100 hit in 1961, marking a pivotal moment for singer Dion after parting ways with the Belmonts. Co-written by Dion and Ernie Maresca, the song delves into the tale of a fickle lover, resonating deeply with audiences of the era and earning its place as a timeless piece in music history.
The genesis of “Runaround Sue” is steeped in spontaneity and camaraderie. Dion initially conceived the song at a friend’s birthday party, where he began weaving lyrics amidst the backdrop of doo-wop harmonies and rhythmic clapping provided by friends. Fuelled by this impromptu creativity, Dion collaborated with Ernie Maresca to shape the melody and lyrics, crafting a narrative that warned against the charms of a woman named Sue, notorious for her infidelity and transient affections.
Following his departure from the Belmonts, Dion found fresh musical synergy with the Del-Satins, who added their vocal prowess to “Runaround Sue” during rehearsals. The song’s infectious appeal caught the attention of Gene Schwartz, co-owner of Laurie Records, leading to its recording at Bell Sound Studios in New York City during the summer of 1961. Backed by an ensemble of talented musicians including Teacho Wiltshire on piano, Buddy Lucas on saxophone, Mickey Baker and Bucky Pizzarelli on guitars, Milt Hinton on bass, and Panama Francis on drums, Dion’s rendition of “Runaround Sue” captivated listeners with its energetic blend of rock and doo-wop elements.
Lyrically, “Runaround Sue” offers a cautionary tale, sung from the perspective of a disillusioned lover advising others to steer clear of Sue’s charms. Dion’s emotive delivery and the song’s catchy refrain—”Now people let me put you wise, Sue goes out with other guys”—underscore the universal theme of heartache and betrayal.
Despite speculation linking the song to Dion’s personal life, particularly concerning his wife Susan, Dion clarified in his autobiography that “Runaround Sue” was inspired by a different muse altogether—a girl whose name fit the lyrical narrative seamlessly. This revelation adds another layer to the song’s enduring mystique and relatability.
Recognized for its cultural impact, “Runaround Sue” secured a lasting legacy in music history, solidifying Dion’s status as a pioneering figure in rock and roll. Its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2002 and placement on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” further underscore its significance and enduring popularity across generations.
In essence, “Runaround Sue” remains a testament to the power of storytelling in music, blending infectious melodies with poignant lyrics to create a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with listeners worldwide.
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Lyrics
Here’s my story, it’s sad but true
It’s about a girl that I once knew
She took my love then ran around
With every single guy in townYeah, I should have known it from the very start
This girl would leave me with a broken heart
Now listen people what I’m telling you
A-keep away from-a Runaround Sue, yeahI miss her lips and the smile on her face
The touch of her hand and this girl’s warm embrace
So if you don’t wanna cry like I do
A-keep away from-a Runaround SueShe likes to travel around, yeah
She’ll love you and she’ll put you down
Now people let me put you wise
Sue goes out with other guysHere’s the moral in the story from the guy who knows
I fell in love and my love still grows
Ask any fool that she ever knew, they’ll tell ya
Keep away from-a Runaround SueYeah keep away from this girl
I don’t know what she’ll do
Keep away from Sue!She likes to travel around, yeah
She’ll love you and she’ll put you down
Now people let me put you wise
She goes out with other guysHere’s the moral in the story from that guy who knows
I fell in love and my love still grows
Ask any fool that she ever knew, they’ll tell ya
A-keep away from-a Runaround SueStay away from that girl
Don’t you know what she’ll do now
Keep away from that girl