Ray Peterson’s “Tell Laura I Love Her” and the Popularity of Tragic Romance Songs

Released in 1960, Tell Laura I Love Her by Ray Peterson is a classic ballad that tells a tragic story of young love and sacrifice. Written by Jeff Barry and Ben Raleigh, the song centers around a young man named Tommy, who enters a stock car race to win money for an engagement ring for his beloved Laura. Tragically, the race ends in disaster, and Tommy’s dying wish is for someone to tell Laura how deeply he loves her.

The song’s emotional storyline and Peterson’s heartfelt delivery made it an instant hit, reaching #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and touching audiences worldwide. Tell Laura I Love Her is a prime example of the “teen tragedy” genre that was popular in the late 1950s and early 1960s, resonating with listeners for its raw depiction of love, loss, and heartbreak.

Tell Laura I Love Her

• Ricky Valance released a cover of Tell Laura I Love Her in the UK, which also became a massive hit, reaching #1 on the UK Singles Chart in 1960.
• The song was controversial upon release, with some radio stations initially refusing to play it due to its tragic theme.
• Ray Peterson’s rendition of the song is considered one of the earliest examples of a “teen tragedy” ballad, a style that later inspired songs like “Leader of the Pack” by The Shangri-Las.
• The song’s legacy has endured over the years, with many artists covering it and listeners continuing to connect with its message of young, passionate love and ultimate sacrifice.

Video