The Four Seasons were a hugely popular American rock and pop group formed in the 1960s. The group was led by the charismatic Frankie Valli, known for his distinctive falsetto voice, and featured Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito, and Nick Massi. The Four Seasons were known for their catchy, upbeat songs, tight harmonies, and unique sound, which blended elements of doo-wop, R&B, and rock and roll.
The group achieved widespread success in the 1960s with hits such as “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, and “Walk Like a Man”. They continued to release chart-topping music throughout the 1970s, including “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)”, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”, and “Who Loves You”. The Four Seasons were known for their high-energy live shows and their ability to create music that was both fun and musically sophisticated.
The Four Seasons’ enduring appeal lies in their ability to create music that is both timeless and of its time, capturing the spirit of the 1960s while remaining relevant to audiences today. Their music has been covered by countless artists over the years, and their influence can be heard in the work of modern-day pop and rock acts. The Four Seasons remain one of the most beloved and enduring acts of the 1960s, a testament to their musical talent and enduring appeal.
1. “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)”
“December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” is a classic hit song by The Four Seasons, released in 1975. The song tells the story of a romantic encounter with a girl, which takes place on a December night. The catchy tune and upbeat rhythm make it an instant party favorite, with its memorable chorus and horn section creating a celebratory atmosphere. The song’s lyrics and melody evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, and excitement, perfectly capturing the carefree spirit of the ’60s and ’70s. The song’s success has made it a timeless classic, with its popularity still going strong nearly 50 years after its release.
2. “Sherry”
“Sherry” is a classic pop song by American vocal group The Four Seasons, released in 1962. The song features a driving beat, catchy melody, and lead singer Frankie Valli’s trademark falsetto vocals. The lyrics describe the singer’s infatuation with a girl named Sherry, and his desire to dance with her and make her his own. “Sherry” was a huge commercial success, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and establishing The Four Seasons as one of the most popular groups of the early 1960s. Its catchy melody and upbeat energy continue to make it a beloved pop classic today.
3. “Walk Like a Man”
“Walk Like a Man” is a song by The Four Seasons, released in 1963 as a single. The song features a driving rhythm and catchy melody, with tight vocal harmonies that showcase the band’s musical prowess. The lyrics describe a young man’s journey to maturity, urging him to “walk like a man” and take responsibility for his actions. The song’s upbeat sound and optimistic message made it an instant hit, reaching number one on the charts and solidifying The Four Seasons’ reputation as one of the most popular and influential acts of the 1960s. “Walk Like a Man” remains a beloved classic of the era, a testament to the enduring power of The Four Seasons’ music.
4. “Big Girls Don’t Cry”
“Big Girls Don’t Cry” is a hit song by the American rock band The Four Seasons, released in 1962. It was written by band member Bob Gaudio and producer Bob Crewe, and features lead vocals by Frankie Valli. The song became a chart-topping success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart. With its catchy melody, doo-wop harmonies, and memorable lyrics about heartbreak and moving on, “Big Girls Don’t Cry” is a classic example of the early 1960s pop sound. The song has been covered by various artists over the years and remains a popular favorite, often heard on oldies radio stations and in films and TV shows set in the era.
5. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is a classic hit song by The Four Seasons, released in 1967. The song was written by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio and has become one of their most recognizable and enduring tracks. The upbeat melody is accompanied by powerful vocals from Frankie Valli and features a memorable brass section that drives the song forward. The lyrics express love and admiration for a partner and the chorus has become an iconic sing-along anthem. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years and remains a beloved classic to this day.
6. “Rag Doll”
“Rag Doll” is a song by The Four Seasons, released in 1964 as a single. The song features a soaring melody and catchy rhythm, with lush orchestration and tight vocal harmonies that showcase the band’s musical talent. The lyrics describe a young woman’s struggle to find love and acceptance in a world that often treats her as a “rag doll”. The song’s poignant lyrics and upbeat sound made it an instant hit, reaching number one on the charts and cementing The Four Seasons’ reputation as one of the most influential acts of the 1960s. “Rag Doll” remains a beloved classic of the era, a testament to the enduring appeal of The Four Seasons’ music.
7. “Dawn (Go Away)”
“Dawn (Go Away)” is a song by The Four Seasons, released in 1964 as a single. The song features a catchy melody and tight vocal harmonies, with a driving rhythm that showcases the band’s musical prowess. The lyrics describe a man’s heartbreak at the departure of his lover, urging her to go away and spare him the pain of seeing her go. The song’s emotional depth and relatable message made it an instant hit, reaching number 3 on the charts and cementing The Four Seasons’ reputation as one of the most popular and influential acts of the era. “Dawn (Go Away)” remains a beloved classic of the era, a testament to The Four Seasons’ enduring appeal.
8. “Stay”
“Stay” is a song by The Four Seasons, released in 1964 as a single. The song features a simple, acoustic sound with a catchy melody and soulful vocals that showcase the band’s musical versatility. The lyrics describe a man’s plea to his lover to stay with him, promising to be faithful and true. The song’s emotional depth and heartfelt message made it an instant hit, reaching number 16 on the charts and cementing The Four Seasons’ reputation as one of the most popular and influential acts of the era. “Stay” remains a beloved classic of the era, a testament to The Four Seasons’ ability to create music that speaks to the heart.
9. “Opus 17 (Don’t You Worry ’bout Me)”
“Opus 17 (Don’t You Worry ’bout Me)” is a song by The Four Seasons, released in 1966 as a single. The song features a driving rhythm and catchy melody, with tight vocal harmonies and a brass section that showcase the band’s musical skill. The lyrics describe a man’s resolve to move on from a failed relationship, urging his former lover not to worry about him. The song’s upbeat sound and optimistic message made it an instant hit, reaching number 13 on the charts and cementing The Four Seasons’ reputation as one of the most popular and influential acts of the era. “Opus 17 (Don’t You Worry ’bout Me)” remains a beloved classic of the era, a testament to The Four Seasons’ enduring appeal.
10. “Who Loves You”
“Who Loves You” is a song by The Four Seasons, released in 1975 as a single. The song features a funky, disco-inspired sound with a catchy beat and driving bassline that showcase the band’s musical versatility. The lyrics describe a man’s search for love and companionship, urging his beloved to stay with him and be faithful. The song’s upbeat sound and positive message made it an instant hit, reaching number 3 on the charts and solidifying The Four Seasons’ reputation as one of the most popular and enduring acts of the 1970s. “Who Loves You” remains a beloved classic of the era, a testament to The Four Seasons’ ability to adapt and evolve with changing musical trends.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
