Ronnie Self (1938-1981) was a rockabilly musician and songwriter who was born in Tin Town, Missouri and was nicknamed "Mr. Frantic" for his energetic live performances. "Bop-A-Lena" was the only song of his to dent the Billboard charts, reaching #63.
Self also wrote a number of songs, some of which were covered by Brenda Lee. His live performances became so unpredictable as to derail his career, and severe alcoholism led to his dying young of cirrhosis.
"Bop-A-Lena" has been covered by k.d. lang, among others. A search also turned up this recording of a TV show called Seventeen produced in Ames, Iowa, in 1958 and featuring local teenagers dancing to this song. I love this video more than words can say.
Created February 2, 2026.