How I’Ve Been Thinking By Ricky Nelson Was A Lost Treasure In His Catalog

March 21, 2025

In the bustling world of music during the late 1950s, Ricky Nelson was a shining star. He began his career as a teenage heartthrob on the television show “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,” captivating audiences with his boyish charm and good looks. But behind that sparkling image was a young man yearning to be taken seriously as a musician. Among the many songs in his catalog, one particular tune, “I’ve Been Thinking,” shimmered like a lost treasure, often overlooked in the shadow of his bigger hits.

“I’ve Been Thinking” was released in 1963, but it didn’t find the spotlight it deserved. The music was a heartfelt reflection of Ricky’s own struggles and thoughts on love and life, and it spoke to the lessons he had learned along the way. The melody, filled with subtle harmonies and gentle guitar strumming, resonated with a kind of melancholic beauty that was raw and honest. Ricky poured his soul into the lyrics, hoping that listeners would connect with his feelings. Yet, in a world where catchy hooks and flashy performances stole the stage, this gem didn’t get the recognition it craved.

As the years rolled on, Ricky faced his own battles. The music landscape was changing rapidly, and rock ‘n’ roll was evolving. Many artists who had once ruled the charts were falling out of favor, and Ricky was no exception. However, he refused to let the shifting tides drown him. Instead of dwelling on setbacks, he continued to create, pouring his heart into every note, desperate to share his story through music. He often revisited “I’ve Been Thinking,” believing that this song held a part of him that he wanted to be discovered.

One day, while performing at a small venue, Ricky decided to give “I’ve Been Thinking” a chance to shine. The audience was filled with fans who had grown up with his music, but many of them had never heard this particular song. As he played, the room fell silent. The gentle strumming of his guitar and the warmth of his voice filled the space, wrapping around each listener like a comforting blanket. When he finished, the crowd erupted with applause, and in that moment, Ricky felt a wave of relief and joy wash over him. He realized that sometimes, the songs that mean the most are the ones that take time to be recognized.

Years later, “I’ve Been Thinking” would be rediscovered by new generations, reminding everyone of Ricky’s incredible talent and emotional depth. The song began to resonate more than ever before, as people faced their own struggles with love and life. Ricky had always believed in the power of music to heal and connect, and seeing this song touch the hearts of many filled him with an overwhelming sense of purpose. The resilience he had shown through the ups and downs of his career proved that every voice matters, and every song, no matter how hidden, can become a guiding light.

Looking back, Ricky Nelson saw “I’ve Been Thinking” not just as a lost song, but as a testament to his journey as an artist. It reminded him that sometimes, treasures lay buried beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to sparkle. For him, the song became a symbol of hope and an affirmation that passion never fades. It taught him that the music would always be worth sharing, no matter how many hurdles he faced, and that the heart would always find its way back to what truly matters.