About the song
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” by Jeannie C. Riley is a song that has left an indelible mark on country music since its release in 1968. Written by Tom T. Hall, the song quickly became a sensation, capturing the imagination of listeners with its bold narrative and catchy melody.
Jeannie C. Riley, born Jeanne Carolyn Stephenson, was an aspiring country singer when she recorded “Harper Valley P.T.A.” This song catapulted her to stardom almost overnight. Riley’s distinctive voice and spirited delivery brought the story to life, making it one of the most memorable songs of its time.
The song tells the tale of Mrs. Johnson, a widowed mother who receives a letter from the local Parent-Teacher Association (P.T.A.) condemning her lifestyle and the way she raises her daughter. In a twist of poetic justice, Mrs. Johnson confronts the P.T.A. members at a meeting, exposing their hypocrisy and double standards. The song’s narrative was groundbreaking for its time, addressing themes of judgment, gossip, and societal norms with a sharp wit and unapologetic tone.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” was an immediate hit, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Hot Country Singles charts. This remarkable achievement made Riley the first woman to top both charts with the same song, solidifying her place in music history. The song also earned Riley a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1969, further cementing its impact.
The success of “Harper Valley P.T.A.” extended beyond the music charts. It inspired a 1978 film and a subsequent television series, both starring Barbara Eden as the resilient Mrs. Johnson. These adaptations helped to keep the song’s story alive and introduced it to new audiences.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” resonated deeply with listeners because of its relatable message and Riley’s compelling performance. It struck a chord with many who had experienced similar judgments and unfair treatment in their own lives. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless theme and the way it boldly challenged societal expectations.
For an older and educated audience, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” offers more than just a catchy tune; it provides a glimpse into the cultural and social dynamics of the late 1960s. Riley’s portrayal of Mrs. Johnson is a testament to the strength and resilience of women who stand up against injustice and hypocrisy.
In revisiting “Harper Valley P.T.A.,” one can appreciate the craftsmanship of Tom T. Hall’s songwriting and the lasting impact of Jeannie C. Riley’s spirited performance. It is a song that continues to be celebrated for its storytelling brilliance and its powerful message, making it a true classic in the annals of country music.
Video
Lyrics
I wanna tell you all a story ’bout
A Harper Valley widowed wife
Who had a teenage daughter
Who attended Harper Valley Junior High
Well, her daughter came home one afternoon
And didn’t even stop to play
And she said, “mom, I got a note here from the Harper Valley PTA”
Well, the note said, “Mrs. Johnson
You’re wearin’ your dresses way too high
It’s reported you’ve been drinking
And a-running ’round with men and goin’ wild
And we don’t believe you oughta be a-bringin’ up
Your little girl this way”
And it was signed by the Secretary
Harper Valley PTA
Well, it happened that the PTA was gonna meet
That very afternoon
And they were sure surprised
When Mrs. Johnson wore her miniskirt into the room
And as she walked up to the blackboard
I can still recall the words she had to say
She said, “I’d like to address this meeting of the Harper Valley PTA
Well, there’s Bobby Taylor sittin’ there
And seven times he’s asked me for a date
And Mrs. Taylor sure seems to use a lotta ice
Whenever he’s away
And Mr. Baker can you tell us why
Your secretary had to leave this town?
And shouldn’t widow Jones be told to keep
Her window shades all pulled completely down
Well, Mr. Harper couldn’t be here
‘Cause he stayed too long at Kelly’s Bar again
And if you smell Shirley Thompson’s breath
You’ll find she’s had a little nip of gin
And then you have the nerve to tell me
You think that as the mother I’m not fit
Well, this is just a little Peyton Place
And you’re all Harper Valley hypocrites”
No, I wouldn’t put you on because it really did
It happened just this way
The day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA
The day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA