Del Shannon, born Charles Weedon Westover on December 30, 1934, was an American rock and roll and country musician and singer-songwriter, famed for his soaring falsetto voice and infusion of melancholy in his music. He rocketed to fame with his 1961 hit “Runaway,” which topped the Billboard charts and became an enduring classic of the era. Shannon’s initial success came during a time when rock was burgeoning, and his contributions helped to shape its early sound.

Throughout his career, Del Shannon remained a prolific artist, although he never quite replicated the massive success of his early smash hit. He continued releasing music well into the 1980s with albums like “Drop Down and Get Me,” produced by Tom Petty, showcasing his staying power in an ever-evolving music landscape. Unfortunately, Shannon’s career was marred by personal struggles, and he battled with depression for many years. His later albums, including posthumous releases like “Rock On!” and its expanded version, as well as collections featuring rare tracks and demos, provide a deeper look into his artistry and the breadth of his musical talents. Del Shannon's influence is still felt today in the rock and country genres, and his work continues to be celebrated by fans and music historians alike. He passed away on February 8, 1990, leaving behind a legacy of heartfelt music that still captures the complexities of the human spirit.

Genres

Doo-wop

Rock-and-roll

Rockabilly

Related Artists

Roy Orbison

The Everly Brothers

Eddie Cochran

Chuck Berry

Diøn

Buddy Holly

Jerry Lee Lewis

Bobby Vee

Ricky Nelson

Fats Domino

Connie Francis

Gene Vincent

Latest Release

Runaway (Party Version)

Del Shannon

Single - Released February 20, 2024