About the song
Lesley Gore’s “It’s My Party” is a timeless pop anthem that captured the hearts of listeners in 1964 and continues to resonate today. Released as the lead single from her debut album, the song became an immediate sensation, topping charts worldwide and cementing Gore’s status as a rising star.
At its core, “It’s My Party” is a bittersweet tale of teenage heartbreak and betrayal. Gore’s plaintive vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and hurt as she recounts the painful discovery of her boyfriend’s infidelity on her birthday. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics struck a chord with young audiences, who identified with the protagonist’s emotional turmoil.
The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring a driving beat, a memorable guitar riff, and Gore’s soulful vocals. The instrumentation complements the lyrical content, creating a mood of both sadness and defiance. Gore’s performance is particularly noteworthy, as she delivers the song with a raw honesty and emotional intensity that is both compelling and heartbreaking.
“It’s My Party” is more than just a catchy pop tune; it’s a poignant exploration of teenage angst and the pain of betrayal. Gore’s timeless performance and the song’s relatable lyrics have ensured its enduring popularity. The track remains a classic of the genre, a testament to Gore’s talent and the enduring power of great songwriting.
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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…