Ricky Nelson, born Eric Hilliard Nelson in 1940, was an American teen idol, singer, and actor, prominent in the 1950s and 60s. He rose to fame on his family’s radio and television show, “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,” where he often performed, seamlessly blending his acting career with his burgeoning music aspirations. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. While he may not have consistently topped the charts with every release, Nelson secured numerous hits throughout his career, becoming a significant figure in early rock and roll and rockabilly. Songs like “Poor Little Fool,” “Travelin’ Man,” and “Hello Mary Lou” cemented his place in music history.
One of Nelson’s lesser-known, yet still charming, tunes from his early career is “It’s Up to You – 1957.” While not a chart-topping smash, the song perfectly encapsulates the clean-cut, romantic themes popular during the era. It expresses the vulnerability and uncertainty of young love, as the singer pleads with the object of his affection to make a choice and decide whether or not to reciprocate his feelings. The lyrics revolve around the central idea that the future of the relationship rests entirely on the other person’s decision, highlighting the power dynamic inherent in budding romances.
Although less widely known than some of his other hits, “It’s Up to You” resonates with audiences for its sincerity and relatable theme. Online commentary and forum discussions suggest that listeners appreciate the song’s simplicity and its reflection of the anxieties and hopes associated with early love. Some commentators note its charming, almost naive, quality as being characteristic of the time period. While not generating widespread critical acclaim, “It’s Up to You – 1957” remains a testament to Ricky Nelson’s talent and the enduring appeal of classic rock and roll.
