About the song
“Tell Laura I Love Her” by Ray Peterson is a poignant ballad that tugs at the heartstrings with its tragic storyline and emotive melody. Originally released in 1960 as a single, the song quickly became a chart-topping hit, reaching number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning widespread acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery.
The song tells the story of a young man who enters a stock car race in hopes of winning prize money to buy a wedding ring for his beloved Laura. Tragically, he meets his demise in a fatal crash during the race, leaving behind a poignant message for Laura to remember his undying love.
Written by Jeff Barry and Ben Raleigh, “Tell Laura I Love Her” struck a chord with audiences worldwide, resonating with its themes of love, loss, and sacrifice. Ray Peterson’s soulful vocals added depth and sincerity to the song, further enhancing its emotional impact.
The song’s popularity spawned numerous cover versions and adaptations, solidifying its status as a classic in the annals of popular music. Its enduring appeal continues to captivate listeners, evoking feelings of nostalgia and longing for a bygone era.
So, if you’re in the mood for a heartfelt ballad that transcends time, look no further than Ray Peterson’s “Tell Laura I Love Her” — a timeless ode to love and loss that still resonates with audiences today.
Video
Lyrics
Laura and Tommy were lovers he wanted to give here everything
Flowers presents and most of all a wedding ring
He saw a sign for a stockcar race a thousand dollar prize it read
He couldn’t get Laura on the phone so to her mother Tommy said
Tell Laura I love her tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura I may be late I’ve something to do that cannot wait
He drove his car to the racing ground he was the youngest driver there
The crowd roared as they started to race
Around the truck they drove at a deadly pace
No one knows what happened that day how his car overturned in flames
But as they pulled him from the twisted wreck
With his dying breath they heard him say
Tell Laura I love her tell Laura I need her
Tell Laura not to cry my love for her will never dieNow in the chapel Laura prays for her Tommy who passed away
It was just for Laura that he lived and died alone in the chapel she can hear him cry
Tell Laura I love her…
My love for her will never die