About the song
Let’s delve into the captivating world of 1960s pop music with a legendary hit that’s sure to evoke nostalgia: “Leader of the Pack” by The Shangri-Las. Released in 1964 as part of their album “Leader of the Pack,” this iconic song catapulted The Shangri-Las to fame and left an indelible mark on the music landscape of the era.
Written by the acclaimed songwriting duo of George “Shadow” Morton, Jeff Barry, and Ellie Greenwich, “Leader of the Pack” tells a poignant tale of teenage romance and tragedy, set against a backdrop of roaring motorcycle engines and rebellious spirit. With its dramatic storytelling and infectious melody, the song struck a chord with listeners, capturing the essence of youthful rebellion and heartache.
Upon its release, “Leader of the Pack” soared to the top of the charts, reaching the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing its status as a chart-topping sensation. Its success wasn’t limited to the United States; the song also achieved international acclaim, charting in numerous countries around the world.
The Shangri-Las’ powerful vocals, coupled with the song’s driving rhythm and evocative lyrics, resonated with audiences of all ages, making it a timeless classic that continues to endure to this day. Its influence can be felt across various genres of music, and its iconic revving motorcycle intro is instantly recognizable to music lovers worldwide.
“Leader of the Pack” remains a shining example of the brilliance of 1960s pop music, encapsulating the spirit of rebellion and romance that defined the era. So, crank up the volume, and let The Shangri-Las take you on a journey back in time with their unforgettable hit, “Leader of the Pack.”
Video
Lyrics
“Is she really going out with him?
“Well, there she is, let’s ask her”
“Betty, is that Jimmy’s ring you’re wearing?”
“Mmm-hmm”
“Gee, it must be great riding with him”
“Is he picking you up after school today?”
“Mmm-mmm”
“By the way, where did you meet him?”
I met him at the candy store
He turned around and smiled at me
You get the picture
“Yes, we see”
That’s when I fell for the leader of the pack
My folks were always putting him down (down, down)
They said he came from the wrong side of town
(What you mean when you say that he came from the wrong side of town?)
They told me he was bad, but I knew he was sad
That’s why I fell for the leader of the pack
One day, my dad said, “find someone new”
I had to tell my Jimmy, “we’re through”
(What you mean when you say that you better go find somebody new?)
He stood there and asked me why, but all I could do was cry
I’m sorry I hurt you, the leader of the pack
He sort of smiled, then kissed me goodbye
The tears were beginning to show
As he drove away on that rainy night
I begged him to go slow, whether he heard
I’ll never know (know, know, know, know, know, know, know)
Look out, look out, look out
I felt so helpless, what could I do?
Remembering all the things we’d been through
In school, they all stop and stare
I can’t hide the tears, but I don’t care
I’ll never forget him, the leader of the pack
Ooh-ooh-ooh (gone, gone-gone-gone-gone-gone)
The leader of the pack, now he’s gone (gone, gone-gone-gone-gone-gone)
The leader of the pack, now he’s gone (gone, gone-gone-gone-gone-gone)
the leader of the pack, now he’s gone (gone, gone-gone-gone-gone-gone)