About the song
Lesley Gore, a pop music icon of the 1960s, penned “It’s My Party” as a defiant anthem of teenage independence and empowerment. This upbeat and catchy tune, released in 1963, became a hit single and a defining song for Gore’s career.
With its energetic melody and Gore’s powerful vocals, “It’s My Party” celebrates the joy of youth and the desire for freedom. The song’s lyrics explore themes of growing up, friendship, and the challenges of navigating the complexities of teenage life.
The opening lines, “It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to,” immediately establish the song’s defiant tone. The lyrics continue to reference the protagonist’s feelings of hurt and betrayal, while also asserting her independence and right to express her emotions. Gore’s powerful vocals and the song’s driving rhythm make it a fun and empowering listen.
“It’s My Party” is more than just a popular pop song; it is a cultural touchstone that has influenced countless artists and generations of music fans. The song’s message of independence and self-expression resonates with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless and enduring piece of music history.
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Lyrics
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
Nobody knows where my Johnny has gone
Judy left the same time
Why was he holding her hand
When he’s supposed to be mine?
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
Playin’ my records, keep dancing all night
But leave me alone for a while
‘Til Johnny’s dancing with me
I’ve got no reason to smile
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
Judy and Johnny just walked through the door
Like a queen with her King
Oh, what a birthday surprise
Judy’s wearin’ his ring
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
Oh, it’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
It’s my party…