About The Song

Following the monumental success of his debut hit “Runaway”, Del Shannon delivered another compelling story-song with “Hats Off To Larry.” The track, which revolves around heartbreak, revenge, and redemption, tells the tale of a betrayed lover who finds satisfaction in the downfall of his former flame.

Opening with the memorable lyric, “Once I had a pretty girl, her name it doesn’t matter,” the song captures listeners with its candid and emotionally charged narrative.

Chart Success

• In the US, the single climbed to impressive heights, showcasing Shannon’s staying power as a hitmaker.
• UK Impact: In September 1961, British listeners welcomed the track into their Top 50 chart, debuting at No. 20. This success reinforced Shannon’s growing international appeal, following the massive reception of “Runaway.”

The Legacy of “Runaway”

Released earlier in 1961, “Runaway” reached No. 1 in both the US Billboard Hot 100

and the UK Singles Chart, introducing the world to Shannon’s distinctive falsetto and the innovative sound of the Musitron, an early synthesizer. “Hats Off To Larry” carried forward the momentum, proving Shannon was no one-hit wonder.

Fun Facts

1. Brooklyn Paramount Inspiration: Del Shannon reportedly wrote “Hats Off To Larry” in the dressing room of the Brooklyn Paramount Theater. Sharing the stage with Dion and Bobby Vee, he debuted his songwriting talent behind the scenes while soaking in the excitement of live performances.
2. Contemporary Competition: The single’s release coincided with other pop milestones, such as John Leyton’s “Johnny Remember Me” dominating the charts and Elvis Presley’s continued Top 10 successes.

Significance

“Hats Off To Larry” solidified Del Shannon’s position as a distinctive voice in early 1960s rock and roll. With its mix of lyrical storytelling, Shannon’s unmistakable vocals, and the emotional rawness of its tale, the track remains a cornerstone of his legacy. It also highlighted his knack for turning personal experiences and emotions into chart-topping hits.

Listen to “Hats Off To Larry” to rediscover the energy and emotion of early rock storytelling!

Lyrics

Once I had a pretty girl
Her name it doesn’t matter
She went away with another guy
Now he won’t even look at her
Hats off to Larry, he broke your heart
Just like you broke mine
When you said we must part
He told you lies
Now it’s your turn to cry, cry, cry
Now that Larry said goodbye to you
I know this may sound strange
I want you back, I think you’ll change
But there’s one more thing I gotta say
Hats off to Larry, it may sound cruel
But you laughed at me
When you said we were through
You told me lies
Now it’s your turn to cry, cry, cry
Now that Larry said goodbye to you
Hats off to Larry, it may sound cruel
But you laughed at me
When you said we were through
You told me lies
Now it’s your turn to cry, cry, cry
Now that Larry said goodbye to you
To you, to you

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