About the song
Let me introduce you to the iconic country hit “Harper Valley P.T.A.” by Jeannie C. Riley, a song that has become a timeless classic in the annals of country music history.
Written by Tom T. Hall, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” was released by Jeannie C. Riley in 1968 as part of her debut album of the same name. From its very first notes, this feisty and spirited tune captured the imagination of listeners with its catchy melody and Riley’s sassy delivery.
Upon its release, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” became an instant sensation, quickly climbing the music charts and reaching the top spot on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Hot Country Singles charts. Its success was unprecedented for a debut artist, and it propelled Jeannie C. Riley to stardom overnight.
The song’s narrative, which tells the tale of a single mother who exposes the hypocrisy of the local Parent-Teacher Association, struck a chord with audiences across America. Its themes of empowerment and standing up to authority resonated with listeners during a time of social and political upheaval.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” not only achieved commercial success but also earned critical acclaim. It earned Jeannie C. Riley a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, solidifying her status as a trailblazing artist in the country music scene.
Decades after its release, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” remains a beloved classic, its infectious melody and timeless message continuing to captivate audiences of all ages. Its enduring popularity has seen it covered by numerous artists and featured in films, television shows, and commercials, ensuring its place in the pantheon of music classics.
So, whether you’re revisiting this gem or experiencing it for the first time, prepare to be entertained and inspired by the unforgettable “Harper Valley P.T.A.” by Jeannie C. Riley.
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