About the song
“Baby Face” by Bobby Vee is a charming and upbeat cover of the 1926 classic originally written by Jean Schwartz and Joe Young, with music by Sam M. Lewis and Jean Schwartz. First popularized by Jan Garber and then famously by Al Jolson, this cheerful love song found a new audience when Bobby Vee recorded it in 1962. His version, which became a big hit, is a testament to his ability to blend classic songs with the style of the early 1960s pop sound.
Released as a single in 1962, the song became one of Bobby Vee’s signature hits, reaching #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was also included on his album “The Vee Jay’s The Vee Jay Sound”, a compilation of his best songs up until that point. “Baby Face” captures the innocence and charm of the early 60s era, a time when love songs dominated the airwaves, and artists like Bobby Vee were at the height of their popularity. The song, with its catchy melody and playful lyrics, is one of the key tracks that solidified Vee’s reputation as a top pop performer of his time.
The song itself is an ode to youthful love and affection, with the lyrics expressing a fondness for someone whose “baby face” is both endearing and irresistible. The protagonist is captivated by the sweetness and innocence of their lover, calling out their “baby face” and declaring how much it makes them smile. This sentiment is universal, as the song encapsulates the joy and simplicity of being in love, while celebrating the tenderness and beauty of a person’s features, especially their face, which becomes the focal point of the affection.
In terms of its cultural impact, “Baby Face” plays a pivotal role in the early 1960s pop landscape, a time when many young male vocalists were drawing influences from the swing and jazz eras while adapting them to the burgeoning rock and roll scene. Bobby Vee’s light, crooning style allowed him to seamlessly adopt these classic standards, giving them a fresh twist for the modern pop audience. His version of “Baby Face” stands out for its crisp production, catchy rhythm, and the heartfelt sincerity with which he delivers the lyrics, making it a timeless piece of pop nostalgia.
The song also reflects the broader cultural moment of the early 60s, when songs like “Baby Face” not only entertained but also conveyed a sense of innocence and optimism during a time of social change and upheaval. The charm of Bobby Vee’s version connects with listeners across generations, offering a glimpse into a simpler, more innocent time in music history.
Overall, “Baby Face” is more than just a cover—it’s a window into the heart of 1960s pop music, an era when artists like Bobby Vee were able to take classic material and breathe new life into it for a modern audience. With its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and enduring charm, “Baby Face” remains a quintessential example of how pop music can transcend generations and continue to make an impact decades after its release.
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Lyrics
Rosy cheeks and turned up nose and curly hair
I’m raving ’bout my baby now
Pretty little dimples here and dimples there
Don’t want to live without her
I love her goodness knows
I wrote a song about her and here’s the way it goesBaby face, you’ve got the cutest little baby face
There’s not another one could take your place, Baby face
My poor heart is jumpin’, you sure have started somethin’
Baby face, I’m up in heaven when I’m in your fond embrace
I didn’t need a shove, ’cause I just fell in love
With your pretty baby faceWhen you were a baby not so long ago
You must have been the cutest thing
I can picture you at ev’ry baby show
Just winnin’ ev’ry ribbon with your sweet baby way
Say, honest I ain’t fibbin’, you’d win ’em all todayBaby face, you’ve got the cutest little baby face
There’s not another one could take your place, Baby face
My poor heart is jumpin’, you sure have started somethin’
Baby face, I’m up in heaven when I’m in your fond embrace
I didn’t need a shove, ’cause I just fell in love
With your pretty baby face