Bobby Vee, born Robert Thomas Velline, was a prominent American pop singer of the early 1960s. Emerging from Fargo, North Dakota, Vee rose to fame unexpectedly when he filled in for Buddy Holly after the tragic plane crash in 1959 that also claimed the lives of Ritchie Valens and J. P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson. He quickly established himself with a string of hits, showcasing a smooth, teen-idol style. While he may not have amassed a collection of Grammy Awards, Vee consistently charted throughout the early and mid-60s, becoming a fixture on the Billboard charts.
“Come Back When You Grow Up,” released in 1967, represents a slightly later phase in Bobby Vee’s career, a period where the musical landscape was shifting dramatically. The song delves into the theme of unrequited love, told from the perspective of someone being rejected for their perceived immaturity. The lyrics paint a picture of a young man told to wait until he’s older and more experienced before attempting a relationship with the object of his affection. This theme resonated with many listeners, particularly young people experiencing similar feelings of being deemed “not ready” for adult relationships.
Although not one of his biggest chart-toppers, “Come Back When You Grow Up” is often remembered fondly by fans of Vee’s era. While readily available online audience feedback from the original release is limited, contemporary comments and retrospective reviews often highlight the song’s nostalgic charm and relatable subject matter. Listeners appreciate its catchy melody and Vee’s sincere delivery, viewing it as a quintessential example of the sweet, slightly melancholic pop songs popular during the mid-1960s. The song continues to evoke a sense of youthful yearning and the universal struggle of navigating the complexities of love and growing up.