This Little Girl of Mine – The Everly Brothers’ Rock & Roll Harmony Classic
Few vocal duos in rock & roll history have had the lasting influence of The Everly Brothers. Known for their impeccable harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, they helped define the sound of 1950s and early 1960s popular music. One standout track from their early catalog is “This Little Girl of Mine”, a song that mixes gospel-inspired rhythms with youthful rock & roll energy.
Background of the Song
“This Little Girl of Mine” was released in 1958 as part of The Everly Brothers’ self-titled debut album. The song was originally written and recorded by Ray Charles in 1955, but the Everly Brothers gave it their own distinctive spin—injecting their signature harmonies and a more upbeat, pop-friendly arrangement.
The track showcases their ability to take an R&B or gospel-based song and turn it into something fresh and accessible for a mainstream audience, especially white teens discovering rock & roll for the first time.
Lyrics and Theme
The lyrics of “This Little Girl of Mine” are simple, catchy, and celebratory. The song revolves around a young man’s adoration for his girlfriend—expressing pride, joy, and affection:
“This little girl of mine, I wanna say that she’s so fine
And each and every day, I make sure she has her way.”
While the words are straightforward, the song’s charm lies in its delivery. It reflects a sense of innocence and fun typical of 1950s teen-oriented love songs.
Musical Style and Harmony
The Everly Brothers’ version is driven by acoustic guitars, a bouncy rockabilly rhythm, and, of course, their trademark close harmony vocals. Don and Phil Everly’s seamless vocal blend became one of the most influential sounds of early rock & roll, inspiring future acts like The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, and The Beach Boys.
Their interpretation of “This Little Girl of Mine” brings a light, joyful energy, turning the Ray Charles original into something more radio-friendly without losing its rhythmic spirit.
Influence and Legacy
While “This Little Girl of Mine” wasn’t one of The Everly Brothers’ biggest chart-toppers, it contributed to their growing reputation as masters of melody and vocal harmony. It also highlighted their knack for reinterpreting rhythm & blues and gospel material for a broader pop audience.
The song has since become a fan favorite and a staple in their live performances, capturing the youthful optimism and musical innovation of late 1950s rock & roll.
Final Thoughts
“This Little Girl of Mine” is a perfect snapshot of The Everly Brothers at their early best—fun, heartfelt, and harmonically rich. It may not be as well-known as hits like “Bye Bye Love” or “All I Have to Do Is Dream,” but it reflects the duo’s versatility and influence.
For those exploring the roots of rock & roll or simply looking for a joyful, toe-tapping tune, this track is well worth revisiting.
Lyrics: This Little Girl Of Mine
This little girl of mine,
I want you people to know
This little girl of mine,
I take her everywhere I goOne day I looked at my suit, my suit was new
I looked at my shoes and they were too
And that’s why, why, why, why I oh yeah,
Love that little girl of mineThis little girl of mine,
Makes me happy when I’m sad
This little girl of mine,
Love’s me even when I’m badShe knows how to love me right down to her teeth
If she does any wrong, you know she keeps it from me
And that’s why, why, why, why I, oh yeah,
Love that little girl of mineAnd that’s why, why, why, why I, oh yeah,
Love that little girl of mineThis little girl of mine,
Called me last night about eight
This little girl of mine,
Told me that we had a dateShe said that she’d meet me at a-quarter to nine,
Believe or not but she was right on time
And that’s why, why, why, why I, oh yeah,
Love that little girl of mineThis little girl of mine,
Knows how to dress so neat
This little girl of mine,
Stops the traffic on the streetAnd when a fella starts a-whistlin’, I don’t mind
I can’t blame him, ’cause she is fine
And that’s why, why, why, why I, oh yeah,
Love that little girl of mine
