About the song
“It’s My Party,” a timeless classic by American singer-songwriter Lesley Gore, encapsulates the essence of teenage heartbreak and social drama in the early 1960s. Released in 1963 as the lead single from her debut album ‘I’ll Cry If I Want To,’ the song became an instant sensation, topping charts and leaving an indelible mark on pop music history.
The narrative of “It’s My Party” revolves around a young girl’s birthday celebration gone awry. Written by Herb Wiener, John Gluck Jr., and Wally Gold, and produced by Quincy Jones, the song vividly captures the emotions of its protagonist as her joy turns to sorrow upon seeing her boyfriend Johnny with another girl named Judy, who wears his ring—a stark symbol of his newfound affection.
Musically, the song is crafted in A major, featuring Quincy Jones’ signature production style that includes Latin-inspired rhythms, layered vocals, and effective horn arrangements. Allmusic critic Jason Ankeny describes it as one of the most poignant depictions of adolescent heartbreak ever recorded, noting its enduring appeal and emotional resonance.
The origins of “It’s My Party” trace back to songwriter Seymour Gottlieb, who penned the lyrics based on his daughter Judy’s real-life experiences. Initially recorded as a demo by Barbara Jean English, it caught the attention of Lesley Gore and Quincy Jones during a demo review session in early 1963. Despite initial doubts, Gore’s rendition, backed by Jones’ production and Claus Ogerman’s arrangements, proved to be a chart-topping success.
The song’s impact extended beyond its initial release, inspiring a sequel titled “Judy’s Turn to Cry” and becoming a cultural touchstone referenced in various media over the decades. From continuous radio play at pivotal moments in history to adaptations in advertising and even a viral resurgence on TikTok in recent years, “It’s My Party” remains an enduring emblem of teenage angst and resilience.
Lesley Gore’s rendition stands as a testament to the power of music to capture universal emotions and experiences, resonating with listeners across generations. Its legacy continues to influence pop culture and inspire new interpretations, cementing its place in the pantheon of iconic pop songs that define an era.
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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…