About the song
“It’s Late” is a song by Ricky Nelson, released in 1959 as a single and featured on his self-titled album. This track stands as a significant piece in the early rock ‘n’ roll era, showcasing Nelson’s distinct blend of pop and rock influences.
Ricky Nelson, who first gained fame as a child actor on the popular television show “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,” made a smooth transition into music with a style that appealed to a wide audience. “It’s Late” is a notable example of his musical talent, featuring a catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics that capture the essence of youthful romance and regret.
The song tells the story of a young man reflecting on a romantic relationship that has ended. He realizes that it is too late to mend the broken relationship, expressing his sorrow and longing through the lyrics. The emotional depth of the song is complemented by Nelson’s smooth vocal delivery and the understated but effective instrumentation.
“It’s Late” achieved notable success on the charts, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This success helped solidify Ricky Nelson’s position as a prominent figure in the music industry during that period.
The track also reflects the broader musical trends of the late 1950s, which blended elements of rock ‘n’ roll with more traditional pop styles. Nelson’s ability to bridge these genres made “It’s Late” a memorable hit and a significant part of his musical legacy.
In the years since its release, “It’s Late” has continued to be appreciated by fans and music historians alike for its timeless quality and the way it encapsulates the emotional landscape of early rock ‘n’ roll. The song remains a testament to Ricky Nelson’s enduring influence and talent in the music world.
Video
Lyrics
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get on home
It’s late, it’s late
We’ve been gone too long
Too bad, too bad
We shoulda checked our time
Can’t phone, can’t phone
We done spent every dime
It’s late, it’s late
We’re ’bout to run outta gas
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get home fast
Can’t speed, can’t speed
We’re in a slow-down zone
Baby, look at that clock
Why can’t it be wrong
If we coulda left home at a quarter to nine
Woulda had fun and plenty of time
We got started just a little bit late
Hope this won’t be our last date
Look up, look up
Is that the moon we see?
Can’t be, can’t be
Looks like the sun to me
It’s late, it’s late
I hate to face your dad
Too bad, too bad
I know he’s gonna be mad
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get on home
It’s late, it’s late
We’ve been gone too long
It’s late, it’s late
We’re ’bout to run outta gas
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get home fast
Can’t speed, can’t speed
We’re in a slow-down zone
Baby, look at that clock
Why can’t it be wrong
If we coulda left home at a quarter to nine
Woulda had fun and plenty of time
We got started just a little bit late
Hope this won’t be our last date
Look up, look up
Is that the moon we see?
Can’t be, can’t be
Looks like the sun to me
It’s late, it’s late
I hate to face your dad
Too bad, too bad
I know he’s gonna be mad
It’s late, it’s late
We gotta get on home
It’s late, it’s late
We’ve been gone too long
It’s late