Hurry Up
Ritchie Valens
The Urgency of Young Love in 'Hurry Up' by Ritchie Valens
Ritchie Valens' song 'Hurry Up' captures the youthful impatience and urgency that often accompanies young love. The lyrics revolve around a young man who is eager to spend time with his date but is frustrated by her tardiness. This impatience is a common theme in teenage relationships, where every moment feels crucial and waiting can seem unbearable. Valens' repetition of 'Hurry up' emphasizes the urgency and the importance he places on punctuality in their relationship.
The song also highlights the social norms and expectations of dating during the late 1950s. The mention of going to the movies and the frustration of only finding seats in the last row reflects the typical dating activities of the time. The young man's insistence on being on time and his threat to find another date if she doesn't hurry up underscores the societal pressure to conform to certain behaviors and timelines in romantic relationships.
Musically, 'Hurry Up' is a lively and upbeat track, characteristic of Valens' rock and roll style. The energetic tempo mirrors the urgency in the lyrics, creating a sense of movement and anticipation. Valens' vocal delivery is both playful and insistent, capturing the mix of frustration and excitement that comes with young love. This song not only showcases Valens' talent as a musician but also provides a snapshot of teenage life and romance in the 1950s.