Ricky Nelson, born Eric Hilliard Nelson in 1940, was a teen idol and rock and roll star who rose to fame alongside his family on the popular television show “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.” While acting alongside his parents and brother, Ricky used the show as a platform to launch his musical career. He quickly gained a devoted following, known for his smooth vocals, boyish charm, and catchy tunes. Nelson charted an impressive number of hits throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s, establishing himself as a significant figure in the early rock and roll scene. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame posthumously in 1987, a testament to his lasting impact on music. While he didn’t often top the charts like Elvis Presley, Nelson consistently landed songs in the top ten and twenty, garnering gold records and solidifying his place in music history.
One of his notable songs from his early career is “It’s Up to You,” released in 1957. This upbeat, pop-rock tune, typical of Nelson’s early style, explores the uncertainty and anticipation of young love. The lyrics center on a boy waiting for a girl to reciprocate his feelings, emphasizing that the next step in their relationship is entirely “up to her.” The song captures the nervous excitement and hopeful vulnerability that resonates with teenagers experiencing first love.
“It’s Up to You” wasn’t a chart-topping smash, but it was well-received by Nelson’s dedicated fanbase. Audiences appreciated its relatable theme and catchy melody, making it a popular track played on radios and jukeboxes. While critical reviews were less prominent than for some of his bigger hits, “It’s Up to You” contributes to the nostalgic appeal of Ricky Nelson’s early work, embodying the spirit of teenage romance in the late 1950s.
