Ricky Nelson - IMDb

About the Song

In the realm of popular music, there are songs that fade into obscurity with the passing of time, and then there are those that stand the test of generations, forever etched into the collective musical consciousness. Rick Nelson’s “It’s Up to You” belongs to the latter category, a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for over six decades.

Released in 1962, “It’s Up to You” was the title track of Nelson’s seventh studio album, showcasing the young singer’s enduring popularity and versatility. The song, penned by the prolific songwriting duo of Jerry Fuller and Artie Shaw, perfectly captured the essence of teenage angst and the yearning for independence, themes that resonated deeply with young listeners of the era.

Nelson’s gentle yet earnest vocals intertwine seamlessly with the song’s infectious melody, creating an atmosphere of both vulnerability and determination. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man grappling with the challenges of self-discovery and the weight of personal responsibility, all while seeking guidance and reassurance from a loved one.

“It’s Up to You” is not merely a song about teenage romance; it’s a universal anthem about taking ownership of one’s life and navigating the complexities of personal growth. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners of all ages, offering solace and inspiration to those facing their own personal crossroads.

Nelson’s charismatic performance and the song’s timeless message have ensured its place in the pantheon of pop music history. “It’s Up to You” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each adding their own interpretation to the song’s enduring melody and poignant lyrics.

The song’s legacy extends beyond its musical impact. It has been featured in countless films and television shows, serving as a nostalgic backdrop for stories of teenage love and self-discovery. “It’s Up to You” has become more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a reminder of a simpler time when love, loss, and the quest for self-identity were the defining themes of adolescence.

In conclusion, Rick Nelson’s “It’s Up to You” stands as a testament to the power of music to transcend generations and touch the hearts of listeners worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message of love, hope, and the courage to take charge of one’s own destiny. As the years continue to pass, “It’s Up to You” is sure to remain an enduring classic, a reminder of the transformative power of music to inspire and connect us all.The Legendary Ricky Nelson — Ricky Nelson | Last.fm

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Lyrics: It’s Up To You

It’s up to you
Because I’ve done everything I can
I hope that you
Will say that I’m your lovin’ manMake up your mind
And do what you’re gonna do
Well you know how I feel
So I’m leaving it up to youIt’s all so clear
That I would give everything I own
To have you near
Never leave me all aloneI need your love
So, darling, please be fair
Let me know where I stand
And I hope that you say you careWell I’ve laid my cards on the table
And its oh so plain to see
That I’m ready, willing and able
To love you faithfully

It’s up to you
No, it’s not for me to say
You love me too
Oh, but I hope you feel that way

Make up your mind
And do what you’re gonna do
Well you know how I feel
So I’m leaving it up to you

[Instrumental]

Make up your mind
And do what you’re gonna do
Well you know how I feel
So I’m leaving it up to you

It’s up to you
Darling, it’s up to you
Baby, it’s up to you
Darling, it’s up to you
Baby, it’s up to you
Darling. it’s up to you
Baby, it’s up to you

You Missed

Dolly Parton turned a simple handmade coat into one of the most powerful songs of her life because to her, it was never really about the fabric. “Coat of Many Colors” sprang directly from Dolly’s growing-up years in East Tennessee. Her mother, Avie Lee, pieced the jacket together by sewing colorful rags the family already owned. Cash was mighty tight, so there was no running down to the store for brand-new clothes. Instead, Avie Lee took what was on hand and stitched together something warm for her little girl to wear. While the needle flew, she shared the Bible story of Joseph and his coat of many colors, turning an ordinary piece of clothing into something special in Dolly’s eyes. Proudly wearing that coat to school, Dolly felt rich, but the other kids saw it differently. They laughed at the patches and teased her for having so little. Years down the road, Dolly penned those childhood memories into “Coat of Many Colors.” Released in 1971, the tune became a shining example of why her songwriting touched so many souls. She never tried to hide hard times or dress up her youth to look prettier than it was. She simply laid the sting of teasing side-by-side with the deep love that stitched the coat together, letting that honest truth speak for itself. The song eventually grew far beyond that original vinyl record. Its spirit inspired the 2015 television movie Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors, followed by Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love the very next year. Those films opened a window into Dolly’s mountain home, introducing folks to the hardworking parents and siblings who shaped her long before the bright lights found her. By then, Dolly had worn glittering stage gowns worth more than her family could ever have dreamed. Yet the garment folks remember best remains that humble little coat stitched by a mother’s loving hands when buying something new simply wasn’t in the cards. That is why the memory stayed alive. The scraps faded away, but the lesson underneath never did.