About the song
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” is one of the most iconic songs in country music history, and its live performance by Jeannie C. Riley at the Grand Ole Opry in 1969 is a testament to its enduring appeal. Written by Tom T. Hall, the song was released in 1968 and quickly became a massive hit, topping both the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and the Billboard Hot 100. This crossover success was a rare achievement at the time, showcasing the song’s broad appeal beyond the country music audience.
The song tells the story of Mrs. Johnson, a widowed mother who is called out by the Harper Valley Parent-Teacher Association (P.T.A.) for her supposedly inappropriate behavior. In a sharp and witty retort, Mrs. Johnson confronts the P.T.A. members, exposing their own hypocrisies and double standards. The song’s narrative struck a chord with listeners for its bold stance against small-town gossip and judgment, and its strong female protagonist who stood up for herself and her daughter.
Jeannie C. Riley’s performance at the Grand Ole Opry in 1969 captured the essence of the song’s rebellious spirit. Dressed in the distinctive mini-skirt and go-go boots that became her signature look, Riley delivered the lyrics with a blend of sass and sincerity that made the character of Mrs. Johnson come to life. The Opry audience, known for its love of traditional country music, embraced Riley’s performance, and it further cemented her place in country music history.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” was not just a commercial success; it became a cultural phenomenon. It inspired a 1978 film and a television series, both of which expanded on the song’s storyline. Riley’s rendition of the song remains one of the defining moments of her career, and it continues to be celebrated as a classic example of country storytelling.
The 1969 live performance at the Opry highlighted Riley’s strong vocal presence and her ability to connect with the audience. It was a performance that reflected the changing times in country music, where songs with social commentary were gaining popularity. “Harper Valley P.T.A.” remains a timeless piece, reminding us of the power of music to address societal issues with humor, grace, and courage.
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