Del Shannon: Runaway (1961)

A man lost his girl and pines for her. That is the basis for Del Shannon's "Runaway." The song has a unique sound and hit #1 in 1961 after an appearance on American Bandstand. This is one of the great songs in the period between the end of the 50s and the British Invasion.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S13mP_pfEc

Del Shannon: Rock n Roll Hall of Fame Class of 1999

Rock Hall Bio: http://rockhall.com/inductees/del-shannon/bio/

Official Site:  http://www.delshannon.com/

Shannon was drafted in 1954. When he returned from the army, he worked part time in a band. In 1958, he assumed control of the band and Del Shannon took off.

Runaway (1961): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S13mP_pfEc

Hats off to Larry (1961): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xk_FR3341bA

The Swiss Maid (1962): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn27xBY8X68

Little Town Flirt (1962): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9kt5LxwxXg

He fought with his label and switched in 1963.

Handy Man (1964): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gIocqHTnWs

Do You Wanna Dance? (1964): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V7m9peH8QA

Keep Searchin’ (We’ll Follow the Sun) (1964): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnSpWU8utw4

Shannon moved to Liberty Records in 1966. His success waned, so Shannon moved to producing in 1969.

Alcoholism and changing music scene slowed his career in the 70s.

Sea of Love (1981): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3O6I6CL3lA

He was in line to replace Roy Orbison in the Travelin’ Wilburys.

Depression led to suicide in 1990.