With all of the changes on the horizon in the 1960s, it should not be too surprising that a strong empowering song for women would be recorded by a 17-year-old. In December of 1963, Lesley Gore released “You Don’t Own Me.”
The song was actually written by two men, John Madara and David White. But Gore’s power made it an instant classic about a young woman asserting herself in her relationship and reminding her significant other that she is going to be her own person.
You don’t own me,
Don’t try to change me in any way;
You don’t own me,
Don’t tie me down ’cause I’d never stay.
“You Don’t Own Me,” however, did have to play second fiddle to a bunch of boys in one way. Gore’s song stalled at number two on the charts while The Beatles held the number one spot with “I Want to Hold Your Hand.”
While both songs are two of the most joyous rock songs of all time, it is Gore’s recording that seems more timeless and timely. Gore also does an amazing job slowly building, building, building until the song explodes near the end. Below, Gore sings “You Don’t Own Me” at the 1964 T.A.M.I show.
Leave your two cents in the comments.
(Some related Chimesfreedom posts.)
One thought on “Song of the Day: “You Don’t Own Me””