About the song
“Donna” is a poignant ballad penned by Ritchie Valens, showcasing his remarkable songwriting talent and heartfelt emotion. Released in 1958 on Del-Fi Records, the song is a tender tribute to Valens’ high school sweetheart, Donna Ludwig. With its classic ’50s progression, “Donna” stands as one of the most enduring and beloved songs of its era, reaching the impressive height of No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1959, narrowly missing the top spot which was held by Lloyd Price’s “Stagger Lee.”
Recorded on September 16, 1958, at Los Angeles’ Gold Star Studios, the song’s production was led by Bob Keene. The session featured a notable lineup of musicians, including Earl Palmer on drums, Buddy Clark on bass, and guitarists Rene Hall, Irving Ashby, and Carol Kaye. The track was paired with Valens’ groundbreaking hit “La Bamba” as the B-side, a combination that highlighted the versatility and appeal of Valens’ music.
“Donna” was only the second single released by Valens, following “Come On, Let’s Go,” and was one of the few singles he managed to release during his tragically short career. The single’s original pressings on Del-Fi Records featured distinctive black and sea green labels, which later evolved to solid sea green or dark green variations. The song enjoyed a remarkable run on the charts, climbing to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 1958 and maintaining its popularity until it peaked at No. 2 just weeks before Valens’ untimely death.
The song’s influence extended beyond its initial release. In the wake of Valens’ death, songwriters Bob Feldman and Jerry Goldstein, along with John Ottowa (a pseudonym for Jack Lewis), produced an answer song titled “A Letter to Donna,” which used Valens’ melody and new lyrics to convey a message to Donna Ludwig, further cementing the song’s emotional impact and legacy.
“Donna” remains a testament to Ritchie Valens’ enduring legacy as a pioneer of rock and roll. Its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melody continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying its place as a classic in the annals of American music. The song’s lasting appeal is a tribute to Valens’ unique talent and his ability to capture the essence of youthful romance and longing.
Video
Lyrics
The next song I’ll do for you is playing Donna
I had a girl
Donna was her name
Since she left me
I’ve never been the same
‘Cause I love my girl
Donna, where can you be?
Where can you be?
Now that you’re gone, I’m left all alone
All by myself, to wander and roam
‘Cause I love my girl
Donna, where can you be?
Where can you be?
Well, darlin’, now that you’re gone
I don’t know what I’ll do
All the time and all my love
For you, ooh-ooh
I had a girl, Donna was her name
Since she left me, I’ve never been the same
‘Cause I love my girl
Donna, where can you be?
Where can you be?
Oh, Donna
Oh, Donna
Oh, Donna
Oh, Donna
Oh-oh-oh