About the song
“Rubber Ball,” performed by Bobby Vee, is a delightful pop tune from 1960 that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant energy and catchy melodies characteristic of early rock and roll. This song marked a significant milestone in Bobby Vee’s career, helping to establish him as a prominent figure in the music industry during that era.
The song was written by the prolific songwriting duo Gene Pitney and Aaron Schroeder. Their combined talents created a song that is both playful and memorable, featuring lyrics that compare the singer’s resilience in love to a rubber ball that bounces back despite being thrown down. This clever metaphor, paired with a bouncy and upbeat rhythm, made “Rubber Ball” an instant hit with listeners.
Released as a single, “Rubber Ball” quickly climbed the charts, reflecting its widespread popularity. In the United States, it reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating its strong appeal. The song also achieved international success, particularly in the United Kingdom, where it peaked at number 4 on the UK Singles Chart. These chart positions underscore Bobby Vee’s ability to connect with audiences through his engaging performances and relatable themes.
“Rubber Ball” was featured on Bobby Vee’s album “Bobby Vee,” which included other notable tracks that contributed to his growing reputation as a talented young artist. The album showcased Vee’s smooth vocals and his knack for selecting songs that resonated with the youth of the time.
The success of “Rubber Ball” was further amplified by Bobby Vee’s charismatic stage presence and the song’s infectious energy, making it a staple in his live performances. Over the years, the song has maintained its charm and continues to be appreciated by fans who fondly remember the early days of rock and roll.
For many, “Rubber Ball” is more than just a song; it’s a nostalgic reminder of a simpler time when music was filled with fun, innocence, and a sense of unbridled joy. Bobby Vee’s rendition of this classic hit remains a beloved piece of musical history, cherished by both long-time fans and new listeners discovering the magic of early 60s pop music.
Video
Lyrics
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
I’m like a rubber ball
Baby that’s all that I am to you (bouncy, bouncy) (bouncy, bouncy)
Just a rubber ball
‘Cause you think you can be true to two (bouncy, bouncy) (bouncy, bouncy)
You bounce my heart around (you don’t even put her down)
And like a rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
If you stretch my love till it’s thin enough to tear
I’ll just stretch my arms to reach you anywhere
And like a rubber ball, I’ll come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I’ll come bouncin’ back to you
You bounce my heart around (you don’t even put her down)
And like a rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy
Bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy
I’m like a rubber band
When on my shoulder you do tap, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy
Just a rubber band
Because my heartstrings, they just snap, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, bouncy
You go and squeeze me till I’m all aflame
(She calls you by some other guy’s name)
But like a rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I come bouncin’ back to yo
Rubber ball, I’ll come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball, I’ll come bouncin’ back to you
Rubber ball