Introduction: A Farewell Song That Resonated Across Generations
Buddy Holly was one of the pioneers of rock and roll, known for his innovative sound and influential style. Released in 1959, “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” became one of his final hits before his tragic death in a plane crash that same year. The song marked a poignant turning point in Holly’s career and is considered a farewell to fans and an iconic moment in rock history.
The Story Behind “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore”
“It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” was written by Paul Anka, a famous singer and songwriter who penned the song specifically for Buddy Holly. The song came out after Holly’s career had already hit its peak, and it was intended to capture the bittersweet emotion of a love that has faded. The track is a gentle, reflective ballad about heartbreak and acceptance, with lyrics that resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced emotional turmoil.
The song’s release in 1959 also coincided with a period of change in Holly’s life. After a brief but transformative career, Holly was starting to explore new musical directions. Sadly, “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” would be one of his final recordings before his death, giving the song a sense of emotional depth and significance.
Buddy Holly’s Unique Style
Buddy Holly was renowned for blending elements of rock, rhythm and blues, and pop into his music. His trademark sound often featured jangly guitars, upbeat rhythms, and a youthful energy that captivated audiences. However, “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” stood out from many of his other tracks for its softer, more introspective tone.
The song’s arrangement features smooth instrumentation, with Holly’s signature vocal style taking center stage. His voice is tender yet full of emotion, perfectly matching the reflective lyrics of the song. The simplicity of the arrangement—combined with Holly’s raw delivery—makes “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” one of his most memorable tracks.
The Chart Success and Reception
Released in the summer of 1959, “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” became a commercial hit, reaching #13 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was a major success, and its popularity helped cement Holly’s place as one of the key figures in the early days of rock and roll.
Despite Buddy Holly’s untimely death in a plane crash on February 3, 1959, which also took the lives of Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, his music continued to live on. “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” was one of the songs that further solidified his legacy as one of the genre’s true pioneers.
The Emotional Depth of “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore”
The lyrics of “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” deal with the end of a relationship and the pain of accepting that things have changed. Holly’s ability to convey this emotion through his vocals gives the song an authenticity that continues to resonate with listeners today. In the context of Holly’s passing, the song almost feels like a statement of resignation and acceptance—not just about love, but also about his own short-lived life and career.
The title itself, “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore,” suggests a sense of closure, but also a certain peace in moving on. It’s a perfect example of how Holly’s music was able to combine youthful energy with deeper, more mature themes that still feel relevant to this day.
Legacy and Influence of “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore”
While “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” was released just before Buddy Holly’s untimely death, it has endured through the decades as a testament to his talent and emotional depth as a songwriter and performer. It stands as one of his most reflective and mature songs, and its ability to evoke genuine emotion is a hallmark of Holly’s legacy.
Buddy Holly’s influence on rock music is immeasurable, with countless artists—from The Beatles to Bob Dylan—citing him as a key inspiration. His short but brilliant career helped shape the sound of early rock and roll, and “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” remains one of the best examples of his ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with innovative music.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
“It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is not only a beautiful and poignant ballad, but it also represents a key moment in Buddy Holly’s career. Despite his tragically short life, Holly’s influence on rock and roll is undeniable, and this song is a testament to the emotional depth he brought to his music. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his work, “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” remains a timeless classic, reflecting the bittersweet nature of love and loss that resonates across generations.
Lyrics: It Doesn’t Matter Anymore
There you go, and baby, here am I
Well, you left me here so I could sit and cry
Well, golly gee, what have you done to me?
Well, I guess it doesn’t matter anymoreDo you remember, baby, last September
How you held me tight each and every night?
Well, whoopsie daisy, how you drove me crazy
But I guess it doesn’t matter anymoreThere’s no use in me a-cryin’
I’ve done everything and now I’m sick of tryin’
I’ve thrown away my nights
And wasted all my days over youWell, you go your way and I’ll go mine
Now and forever till the end of time
I’ll find somebody new, and baby, we’ll say we’re through
And you won’t matter anymoreThere’s no use in me a-cryin’
I’ve done everything and now I’m sick of tryin’
I’ve thrown away my nights
And wasted all my days over youWell, you go your way and I’ll go mine
Now and forever till the end of time
I’ll find somebody new, and baby, we’ll say we’re through
And you won’t matter anymore
You won’t matter anymore
