About the Song
The Story Behind ‘It’s My Party’ by Lesley Gore
In 1963, a 17-year-old girl named Lesley Gore released a song that would become a teenage anthem. The song, “It’s My Party”, was a catchy, upbeat tune about a girl who throws a party only to find out that her boyfriend is cheating on her. The song’s lyrics, which were written by Seymour Gottlieb and John Gluck, perfectly captured the angst and heartbreak of teenage love.
Lesley Gore was born Lesley Sue Goldstein in Brooklyn, New York, in 1946. She began singing at a young age and appeared on several local television shows before signing with Mercury Records in 1962. Her first single, “It’s My Party,” was released in the spring of 1963 and quickly became a hit. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and stayed there for two weeks. It also reached number one in the United Kingdom and several other countries.
“It’s My Party” was a major success for Lesley Gore and helped to launch her career as a pop star. She went on to release several more hit singles, including “Judy’s Turn to Cry” and “You Don’t Own Me.” She also appeared in several films, including “The Girl with the Green Eyes” and “Ride the Wild Surf.”
The impact of “It’s My Party” cannot be overstated. The song was a major cultural phenomenon and helped to define the teenage experience of the 1960s. It has been covered by countless artists, including Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and R.E.M. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows.
“It’s My Party” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. It is a song about heartbreak, betrayal, and empowerment. It is a song that reminds us that it is okay to cry, even when it is your own party.
Some interesting facts about the song:
- The song was inspired by a real-life incident that happened to the song’s co-writer, Seymour Gottlieb. His daughter threw a tantrum before her Sweet 16 party because her parents insisted on inviting her grandparents.
- The song was originally recorded by another singer, but Lesley Gore’s version was released instead.
- The song was banned by some radio stations because of its lyrics about teenage heartbreak.
- The song has been covered by countless artists, including Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and R.E.M.
- The song has been featured in numerous films and television shows.
“It’s My Party” is a true classic that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a song that will never go out of style.