About the song
In the early 1960s, the music industry was abuzz with the emergence of new genres, styles, and artists. Among the many talented musicians of this era was Mark Dinning, an American singer-songwriter who made a lasting impact on the music scene. One of his most iconic and enduring songs is “Teen Angel,” released in 1960. This nostalgic ballad has become a timeless classic, captivating audiences for generations with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics.
Written by Seymour Gottlieb, “Teen Angel” tells the story of a young couple’s tragic love affair. The song’s narrative is woven around the theme of lost innocence, as the protagonist mourns the passing of his teenage sweetheart. The lyrics are a poignant reflection of the pain and longing that often accompany the loss of a loved one, particularly during the tumultuous years of adolescence.
Mark Dinning’s smooth, velvety voice brings the song to life, imbuing the lyrics with a sense of vulnerability and sincerity. His delivery is characterized by a gentle, soothing quality that perfectly complements the song’s melancholic tone. The arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring a minimalist accompaniment that allows Dinning’s voice to take center stage.
“Teen Angel” was a commercial success upon its release, reaching the top of the Billboard charts and cementing Dinning’s status as a rising star in the music industry. The song’s popularity was not limited to the United States, as it also gained widespread acclaim in the UK and other parts of Europe.
Over the years, “Teen Angel” has been covered by numerous artists, including notable performers such as The Carpenters and The Righteous Brothers. However, Mark Dinning’s original version remains the most iconic and widely recognized, thanks to its timeless appeal and enduring popularity.
In conclusion, “Teen Angel” by Mark Dinning is a masterpiece of 1960s pop music that continues to captivate audiences today. The song’s haunting melody, poignant lyrics, and Dinning’s soulful vocals have made it a beloved classic that transcends generations. As a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions and connect people across time and space, “Teen Angel” remains an essential part of the American musical heritage.
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Lyrics
Teen angel, teen angel
Teen angel, ooh, ooh
That fateful night
The car was stalled
Upon the railroad track
I pulled you out and we were safe
But you went running back
Teen angel, can you hear me?
Teen angel, can you see me?
Are you somewhere up above
And am I still your own true love
What was it you were looking for
That took your life that night?
They said they found my high school ring
Clutched in your fingers tight
Teen angel, can you hear me?
Teen angel, can you see me?
Are you somewhere up above
And am I still your own true love
Just sweet sixteen and now you’re gone
They’ve taken you away
I’ll never kiss your lips again
They buried you today
Teen angel, can you hear me?
Teen angel, can you see me?
Are you somewhere up above
And am I still your own true love
Teen angel, teen angel
Answer me, please