Introduction:
A Doo-Wop Dedication: The History of “We Belong Together” by Ritchie Valens
“We Belong Together” isn’t just a love song, it’s a journey through the evolution of American pop music. While the version most widely recognized today is by Ritchie Valens, the song’s roots trace back to the world of rhythm and blues.
In 1958, Robert & Johnny, a duo consisting of Robert Carr and Johnny Mitchell, penned and released the original “We Belong Together.” Their soulful rendition, infused with the smooth harmonies characteristic of doo-wop, climbed the R&B charts, reaching #12. This early version laid the groundwork for the song’s future success.
Ritchie Valens, a rising star in the rock and roll scene, took notice of “We Belong Together” and released his own rendition in 1959. Valens’s version, with its infectious guitar riffs and his signature passionate vocals, injected a rock and roll energy into the song, making it more palatable to a wider audience. This broader appeal helped propel Valens’s version onto the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Tragically, Valens’s career was cut short later that same year in a plane crash. However, “We Belong Together” continued to find new audiences. The song gained renewed popularity thanks to its inclusion in the 1987 biopic “La Bamba,” solidifying its place in American music history.
“We Belong Together” transcends its doo-wop origins. It’s a testament to the enduring power of love songs, showcasing their ability to morph and resonate across genres and generations. So, when you hear the opening chords, remember the journey this song has taken, from the soulful stylings of rhythm and blues to the rock and roll energy that forever linked it to the legend of Ritchie Valens.