This was written by Eugene ‘Gene’ Pearson, whose real name was Joshua Leviston, and first recorded in 1953 by his group, the Rivileers (how on earth did they come up with that name?) quaintly described on the record label as ‘vocal quintet with orchestra’. Pearson was 18 at the time.
In 1960 it was released by Kathy Young (aged 15) and the Innocents, with drums played by Sandy Nelson. It got to No 3 in the States.
Billy’s version reached No 14 on the UK Singles Chart in January 1961. I am not saying it is his best track, but it is still the wonderful Billy.
He re-recorded it for his appearance in the 1973 film That’ll Be The Day.
Arthur Alexander, writer of You Better Move On, included it on his 1962 album of the same name. I think this is probably the best version, but as far as I am concerned Billy is king.