Runaround Sue – Dion

“Runaround Sue” is a classic rock and roll song performed by Dion DiMucci, better known simply as Dion. The song was released in September 1961 and was featured on Dion’s album “Runaround Sue.” It became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number 11 on the UK Singles Chart.

The song was co-written by Dion and Ernie Maresca and produced by Gene Schwartz. “Runaround Sue” is a quintessential example of early 1960s rock and roll, known for its catchy melody, doo-wop backing vocals, and upbeat tempo. The track features a prominent bass line and handclaps, characteristic of the pop-rock sound of that era.

Lyrically, “Runaround Sue” tells the story of a heartbroken young man warning others about a girl named Sue, who has a habit of being unfaithful and leaving men heartbroken. The chorus is particularly memorable with its repetitive “Hey, hey, hum-ba-diddy-diddy” refrain. The song conveys a sense of teenage angst and romantic frustration, themes common in rock and roll music of the time.

“Runaround Sue” remains one of Dion’s most famous songs and a staple of oldies radio stations. Its enduring popularity has led to numerous covers and renditions by various artists over the years. The song has influenced many musicians and continues to be a beloved classic in the rock and roll canon.

Dion followed “Runaround Sue” with another big hit, “The Wanderer,” which also became a rock and roll classic. Dion has mentioned in interviews that “Runaround Sue” was inspired by his own experiences and relationships during his teenage years. The song stands as a timeless piece of rock and roll history, capturing the spirit and sound of the early 1960s while continuing to resonate with audiences decades later.

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 town
Yeah 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
I might miss her lips and the smile on her face
The touch of her hair and this girl’s warm embrace
So if you don’t want to cry like I do
A keep away from-a Runaround Sue
Ah, she likes to travel around
She’ll love you and she’ll put you down
Now people let me put you wise
Sue goes out with other guys
Here’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
Keep away from-a Runaround Sue
Yeah keep away from this girl
I don’t know what she’ll doe
Keep away from Sue
She likes to travel around
She’ll love you and she’ll put you down
Now people let me put you wise
She goes out with other guys
Here’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
Keep away from a Runaround Sue
Stay away from that girl
Don’t you know what she’ll do now