Del Shannon is a name that is synonymous with the early 1960s music scene. With his distinctive falsetto vocals, Shannon rose to fame with his first hit “Runaway” and continued to create memorable music until his untimely death in 1990. Shannon’s music was a blend of rock and roll and pop, with a unique sound that stood out from other artists of the time. His songs have stood the test of time and continue to be enjoyed by music lovers of all ages.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the 10 best Del Shannon songs of all time. Each of these songs is a testament to Shannon’s musical genius and his ability to create memorable melodies and lyrics that resonate with listeners. These songs span the course of Shannon’s career and showcase his versatility as an artist.
First on the list is “Runaway,” Shannon’s biggest hit and the song that introduced him to the world. It features a catchy keyboard riff that is instantly recognizable, along with Shannon’s signature falsetto vocals. “Hats Off to Larry” is another classic hit that helped establish Shannon as a major force in pop music. It’s a catchy tune with a sing-along chorus that has stood the test of time.
“Little Town Flirt” is a classic rock and roll tune with a memorable chorus and Shannon’s signature falsetto vocals. “Keep Searchin’ (We’ll Follow the Sun)” is an upbeat, optimistic song that showcases Shannon’s rock and roll roots. It features a catchy melody and a memorable guitar riff that will get your toes tapping.
“Stranger in Town” is a haunting ballad that highlights Shannon’s emotional depth and versatility as a singer. It’s a beautiful song that showcases Shannon’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music. “So Long Baby” is another classic rock and roll tune with a catchy guitar riff and Shannon’s trademark falsetto.
1. Runaway
“Runaway” is a classic rock and roll song by American singer-songwriter Del Shannon, released in 1961. The song features Shannon’s distinctive falsetto vocals, a catchy guitar riff, and a memorable keyboard solo played on a clavioline, an electronic keyboard instrument. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a man running away from his problems, and the pain and loneliness that come with it. With its infectious melody and powerful vocal performance, “Runaway” became an instant hit, reaching number one on the charts in the US and the UK, and cementing Shannon’s status as one of the most influential artists of the early rock era.
2. Hats Off To Larry
“Hats Off To Larry” is a classic pop rock song by Del Shannon, released in 1961 as a follow-up to his breakthrough hit “Runaway”. The song features Shannon’s distinctive falsetto vocals and a catchy guitar riff, and tells the story of a man who has lost his girlfriend to another man. Despite the heartbreak, the narrator wishes the couple well and offers his congratulations, saying “Hats off to Larry, he broke your heart, just like you broke mine when you said we must part.” “Hats Off To Larry” was a major hit for Shannon, reaching the top 10 on the US charts and solidifying his status as one of the leading figures in the early rock and roll scene.
3. Keep Searchin’ (We’ll Follow the Sun)
“Keep Searchin’ (We’ll Follow the Sun)” is a rock and roll song by American singer-songwriter Del Shannon, released in 1964. The song features Shannon’s signature falsetto vocals, a driving beat, and a memorable guitar riff. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a man searching for his lost love, and the hope that they will be reunited one day. With its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, “Keep Searchin'” became a hit on both sides of the Atlantic, and is regarded as one of Shannon’s most memorable and enduring songs, showcasing his unique vocal style and songwriting talent.
4. He Cheated
“He Cheated” is a classic R&B-inspired song by Del Shannon, released in 1961. The song features Shannon’s powerful vocals and a driving rhythm, and tells the story of a woman who has been betrayed by her lover. Despite her heartbreak, the narrator resolves to move on and find a new love, singing “He cheated, he lied, but I’m gonna find someone to treat me right.” “He Cheated” showcases Shannon’s versatility as an artist, as he moves from the upbeat rock and roll of “Runaway” to the soulful R&B of this track. The song was a moderate hit for Shannon, and remains a fan favorite among his loyal following.
5. Little Town Flirt
“Little Town Flirt” is a rock and roll song by American singer-songwriter Del Shannon, released in 1962. The song features Shannon’s distinctive falsetto vocals, a catchy guitar riff, and a memorable chorus. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a small town girl who is the object of desire for many young men, but who ultimately remains unattainable. With its infectious melody and upbeat tempo, “Little Town Flirt” became a hit, reaching the top ten in both the US and the UK, and solidifying Shannon’s reputation as one of the most talented and innovative musicians of his time.
6. Hey! Little Girl
“Hey! Little Girl” is a classic rock and roll song by Del Shannon, released in 1962. The song features Shannon’s trademark falsetto vocals and a catchy guitar riff, and tells the story of a man who is smitten with a young woman. Despite her initial reluctance, the narrator convinces her to give him a chance, singing “Hey! Little girl, let me be your man, I wanna be your lover, I wanna be your friend.” “Hey! Little Girl” was a moderate hit for Shannon, reaching the top 40 on the US charts, and is considered a classic example of the early 1960s rock and roll sound.
7. So Long, Baby
“So Long, Baby” is a classic rock and roll song by Del Shannon, released in 1961. The song features Shannon’s distinctive falsetto vocals and a driving rhythm, and tells the story of a man who has been wronged by his lover. Despite his heartbreak, the narrator resolves to move on and find a new love, singing “So long, baby, you’re on your own, I’ve had enough of your two-timing ways.” “So Long, Baby” showcases Shannon’s ability to capture the pain of lost love, while also providing an upbeat and catchy melody that was popular with audiences of the time. The song was a moderate hit for Shannon and is now considered a classic example of early rock and roll.
8. Thinkin’ It Over
“Thinkin’ It Over” is a heartfelt ballad by Del Shannon, released in 1961. The song features Shannon’s signature falsetto vocals and a melancholy melody, and tells the story of a man who is reflecting on a lost love. The narrator is torn between the pain of his broken heart and the hope that his former lover might still come back to him. “Thinkin’ It Over” showcases Shannon’s ability to convey deep emotions through his music, and remains a favorite among his fans. The song’s timeless message of love and heartbreak resonates with listeners to this day.
9. Ginny in the Mirror
“Ginny in the Mirror” is a haunting rock and roll ballad by American singer-songwriter Del Shannon, released in 1963. The song features Shannon’s distinctive falsetto vocals, backed by a mournful piano and a simple drum beat. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a man who is haunted by the memory of a lost love, and who seeks solace in the reflection of her image in the mirror. With its poignant lyrics and emotive vocal performance, “Ginny in the Mirror” is regarded as one of Shannon’s most evocative and moving songs, showcasing his range and depth as a musician and songwriter.
10. From Me To You
“From Me to You” is a classic pop song by Del Shannon, released in 1963. The song features Shannon’s emotive vocals and a soaring melody, and tells the story of a man who is pouring his heart out to his lover. The narrator asks for forgiveness and promises to do better, singing “From me to you, I’ll always be true, I’m gonna try to make it better.” “From Me to You” was not a major hit for Shannon, but remains a fan favorite among his loyal following. The song’s touching lyrics and Shannon’s powerful delivery make it a standout in his catalog.
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.
