About the song
Dion’s “Runaround Sue” is a timeless classic of doo-wop music that continues to captivate audiences with its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics. Released in 1961, the song quickly became a number-one hit, cementing Dion’s status as a leading figure in the genre.
The song’s catchy chorus, with its simple, repetitive refrain of “Runaround Sue,” is instantly recognizable and has been covered by countless artists over the years. However, it’s the lyrics that truly elevate “Runaround Sue” above the ordinary. The song tells the story of a young man’s unrequited love for a woman who is constantly on the move. The narrator’s longing and frustration are conveyed with raw emotion, making the song relatable to listeners of all ages.
Dion’s vocals are a highlight of the recording, with his smooth tenor voice perfectly capturing the song’s romantic and melancholic atmosphere. The backing harmonies provided by the Belmonts, Dion’s vocal group at the time, add depth and richness to the arrangement. The song’s instrumentation is simple but effective, featuring acoustic guitars, bass, and drums, creating a classic doo-wop sound.
“Runaround Sue” has been praised for its timeless appeal and its ability to evoke nostalgia. It’s a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting and the enduring popularity of doo-wop music. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the genre or simply looking for a classic pop song to enjoy, “Runaround Sue” is a must-listen.
Video
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 townHey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)Hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)I should have known it from the very start
This girl will leave me with a broken heart
Now listen people what I’m telling you
A-keep away from-a Runaround Sue, yeahI might 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 SueHey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)She 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 and 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 say
A-keep away from-a Runaround SueHey-hey, yeah, keep away from this girl
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey, I know, know what she’ll do
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey, keep away from Sue
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-heyShe likes to travel around, yeah
She’ll love you and she’ll put you down
Now people let me put you wise
A-she goes out with other guysHere’s the moral and 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 say
A-keep away from-a Runaround Sue, yeahHey-hey, stay away from that girl
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey, don’t you know what to do now
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)Hey-hey
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Wam-bi-le-le, hey-hey (keep away from that girl)