About the song
“Poor Little Fool” is a timeless classic that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Written by the talented Sharon Sheeley at the tender age of 15, this song is a testament to her remarkable songwriting skills and her ability to craft a narrative that resonates with listeners of all ages. The song’s origins are rooted in Sheeley’s personal experiences, specifically her disappointment following a short-lived relationship with Don Everly of The Everly Brothers. This emotional turmoil inspired Sheeley to pour her heart and soul into the song, resulting in a masterpiece that would go on to become a chart-topping hit.
The song’s journey to stardom began when Sheeley sought out Ricky Nelson to record the tune. With her car supposedly broken down, she convinced Nelson to come to her aid, and she presented him with the song. Nelson’s version of “Poor Little Fool” was recorded on April 17, 1958, and released on Imperial Records. The song’s success was swift and decisive, reaching the number-one spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and staying there for two weeks. It also charted on the Country and Rhythm and Blues charts, cementing its status as a crossover hit.
The song’s impact extended beyond its chart performance, as it became a staple of Nelson’s live shows and a fan favorite. The song’s success also led to Sheeley working with other notable artists, including Eddie Cochran. Despite its initial success, “Poor Little Fool” has continued to endure, with its themes of heartbreak and longing remaining relevant to this day. As a testament to its enduring appeal, “Poor Little Fool” remains a beloved classic, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of music lovers.
Video
Lyrics
I used to play around with hearts
That hastened at my call
But when I met that little girl
I knew that I would fall
Poor little fool, oh yeah
I was a fool, uh-huh
(Uh-huh, poor little fool)
(I was a fool, oh yeah)
She’d play around and tease me
With her carefree devil eyes
She’d hold me close and kiss me
But her heart was full of lies
Poor little fool, oh yeah
I was a fool, uh-huh
(Uh-huh, poor little fool)
(I was a fool, oh yeah)
She told me how she cared for me
And that we’d never part
And so for the very first time
I gave away my heart
Poor little fool, oh yeah
I was a fool, uh-huh
(Uh-huh, poor little fool)
(I was a fool, oh yeah)
The next day she was gone
And I knew she’d lied to me
She left me with a broken heart
And won her victory
Poor little fool, oh yeah
I was a fool, uh-huh
(Uh-huh, poor little fool)
(I was a fool, oh yeah)
Well, I played this game with other hearts
But I never thought I’d see
The day when someone else would play
Love’s foolish game with me
Poor little fool, oh yeah
I was a fool, uh-huh
(Uh-huh, poor little fool)
(I was a fool, oh yeah)
Poor little fool, oh yeah
I was a fool, uh-huh
(Uh-huh, poor little fool)
(Poor little fool)