“Devil or Angel,” a quintessential teen idol ballad, cemented Bobby Vee’s place in the early rock and roll landscape. Born Robert Thomas Velline in Fargo, North Dakota, Bobby Vee rose to fame at just 15, filling in for Buddy Holly after the tragic plane crash in 1959. He quickly captivated audiences with his smooth vocals and boy-next-door charm, becoming a prominent figure in the pop music scene of the early 1960s. Vee achieved considerable chart success throughout his career, landing numerous songs in the Billboard Top 100. Though “Devil or Angel” didn’t reach number one, it peaked at number six in 1960, solidifying his reputation as a hitmaker. He earned a gold record for the song, a testament to its widespread popularity.
“Devil or Angel” explores the internal conflict of a young man grappling with the duality of his love interest. The lyrics paint a picture of a girl who is sometimes sweet and angelic, and other times acts in a way that’s more mischievous and devilish. The singer is torn, unable to decide if her true nature is good or bad, highlighting the confusion and uncertainty often associated with young love. The song’s simple, catchy melody combined with relatable lyrics made it a hit with teenagers, who connected with the emotional turmoil depicted.
Contemporary audiences embraced the song’s innocent charm and Vee’s heartfelt delivery. It resonated with the prevailing sentiment of the era, a time of transition between the rebellious energy of early rock and roll and the more polished sounds of the early 1960s. Feedback at the time focused on the song’s sing-along quality and Vee’s appealing vocals. It was seen as a clean-cut and wholesome alternative to some of the more edgy music gaining popularity. “Devil or Angel” remains a beloved classic, a nostalgic reminder of a simpler time in pop music history, and a testament to Bobby Vee’s enduring appeal.