About the song
“You Don’t Own Me” by Lesley Gore is a timeless classic that has resonated with generations since its release in 1963. This iconic song, which speaks to themes of independence and self-respect, was written by John Madara and David White, two prolific songwriters of the era. Lesley Gore, who was only 17 years old at the time, delivered a powerful and mature performance that cemented her place in music history.
The song was a standout track on Lesley Gore’s album “Lesley Gore Sings of Mixed-Up Hearts,” and it quickly became an anthem for women asserting their autonomy. “You Don’t Own Me” reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, held from the top spot by The Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” which is a testament to the song’s impact and popularity during the height of the British Invasion.
Lesley Gore’s assertive delivery and the song’s bold lyrics were groundbreaking at a time when female singers often portrayed more submissive roles in their music. The line “Don’t tell me what to do, don’t tell me what to say” became a rallying cry for those seeking equality and respect.
Over the years, “You Don’t Own Me” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films and television shows, underscoring its enduring relevance. It has been praised for its feminist message and is often cited as a precursor to the women’s liberation movement that gained momentum in the late 1960s and 1970s.
Lesley Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me” remains a powerful declaration of independence and a beloved classic that continues to inspire new generations with its timeless message of self-empowerment and defiance against control.
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Lyrics
You don’t own me
I’m not just one of your many toys
You don’t own me
Don’t say I can’t go with other boys
And don’t tell me what to do
Don’t tell me what to say
And please, when I go out with you
Don’t put me on display ’cause
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
I don’t tell you what to say
I don’t tell you what to do
So just let me be myself
That’s all I ask of you
I’m young and I love to be young
I’m free and I love to be free
To live my life the way I want
To say and do whatever I please
And don’t tell me what to do
Oh, don’t tell me what to say
And please, when I go out with you
Don’t put me on display
I don’t tell you what to say
Oh, don’t tell you what to do
So just let me be myself
That’s all I ask of you
I’m young and I love to be young
I’m free and I love to be free