Introduction:
Puppy Love, a sugary-sweet teen pop ballad, was released in 1960 and became an instant classic. The song was written and performed by the Canadian singer-songwriter Paul Anka. Anka, who had already achieved success with hits like “Diana” (1957) and “Lonely Boy” (1959), was a young star himself at the time, only 18 years old. Puppy Love further solidified his status as a teen idol.
While some sources credit Anka as the song’s producer there is some debate about this. What is clear is that the song was released on Anka’s own label, Swan Records. Anka had a great deal of creative control over his music, and Puppy Love is no exception.
The song’s catchy melody and innocent lyrics about a young boy’s infatuation resonated with teenagers of the era. The narrator sings about his all-consuming crush, his nervousness around his beloved, and his hope that his feelings are reciprocated. Lines like “They call it puppy love / Oh, I guess they’ll never know / How a young heart can really feel / And why I love her so” captured the emotions of young love perfectly.
Puppy Love was a massive commercial success. The song reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, held off the top spot only by Percy Faith’s orchestral version of the theme from the movie “A Summer Place.” Puppy Love also charted well in Canada and the United Kingdom.
The song’s legacy extends far beyond the initial burst of popularity. Puppy Love has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Donny Osmond, Donny Hathaway, and The Osmonds. It has also been featured in many films and television shows, solidifying its place in pop culture history.
Puppy Love is more than just a catchy song. It’s a timeless coming-of-age anthem that perfectly captures the innocence and intensity of young love. It remains a beloved song for people of all ages, a reminder of the giddy feelings and butterflies that come with a first crush.
Video:
Lyrics:
And they called it puppy loveOh, I guess they’ll never knowHow a young heart how it really feelsAnd why I love her soAnd they called it puppy loveJust because we’re, we’re seventeenTell them all it’sPlease tell them it isn’t fairTo take away my only dreamI cry each nightMy tears for youMy tears are all in vainI hope and I’ll prayThat maybe somedayYou’ll be back (you’ll be back) in my arms (in my arms)Once again (you’ll be back in my arms once again)Someone help me, help meHelp me, pleaseIs the answer up above?How can IOh, how can I ever tell them?This is not a puppy love(This is not a puppy love)Someone help me, help meHelp me, pleaseIs the answer up above?How can I ever tell them?This is not a puppy love(This is not a puppy love)