About the song
“Good Girls Don’t,” performed by The Knack, is a quintessential track from the late 70s that encapsulates the band’s energetic rock style and clever lyrical storytelling. This song was released in 1979 as the second single from their debut album “Get the Knack.” Written by lead vocalist Doug Fieger, “Good Girls Don’t” showcases The Knack’s knack for blending catchy melodies with cheeky, youthful lyrics.
The song tells a story of teenage lust and the complexities of young romance, themes that were both relatable and provocative for its time. With its infectious guitar riffs and punchy rhythm, “Good Girls Don’t” quickly caught the attention of listeners and critics alike. Despite its seemingly innocent title, the song’s lyrics are playfully risqué, which stirred some controversy but also added to its allure.
“Good Girls Don’t” achieved significant commercial success. It climbed to number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, further cementing The Knack’s reputation as one of the standout bands of the power pop genre. The album “Get the Knack” itself was a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 and earning multi-platinum certification. This success was propelled by the combination of Fieger’s charismatic vocals, Berton Averre’s memorable guitar work, and the band’s tight, dynamic sound.
The Knack’s rise to fame was meteoric, driven by their ability to craft songs that were both musically engaging and lyrically bold. “Good Girls Don’t” remains a classic example of their talent. The song’s catchy hook and spirited performance have ensured its place in the annals of rock history. For those who experienced its original release, it serves as a nostalgic reminder of a vibrant musical era. For new listeners, it offers a glimpse into the playful yet rebellious spirit of late 70s rock.
The band’s influence extended beyond their chart-topping hits, leaving a lasting impact on the power pop and new wave movements. “Good Girls Don’t” is a testament to The Knack’s ability to blend sharp musicality with engaging storytelling, a combination that continues to resonate with audiences today.
For older listeners, revisiting “Good Girls Don’t” is like taking a trip back to a time when rock music was unabashedly fun and irreverent. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its perfect balance of catchy pop sensibility and rock ‘n’ roll edge, making it a favorite across generations. Whether you’re reminiscing about the past or discovering The Knack for the first time, “Good Girls Don’t” is sure to captivate with its enduring charm and energy.
Video
Lyrics
She’s your adolescent dream,
Schoolboy stuff, a sticky sweet romance.
And she makes you want to scream,
Wishing you could get inside her pants.
So, you fantasize away.
And while you’re squeezing her, you thought you heard her saying…
“Good girls don’t,
Good girls don’t,
Good girls don’t, but I do.”
So, you call her on the phone
To talk about the teachers that you hate.
And she says she’s all alone,
And her parents won’t be coming home til late.
There’s a ringing in your brain,
Cause you could’ve sworn you though you heard her saying…
“Good girls don’t,
Good girls don’t,
Good girls don’t, but I do.”
And it’s a teenage sadness
Everyone has got to taste.
An in-between age madness
That you know you can’t erase
Til she’s sitting on your face.
You’re alone with her at last,
And you’re waiting til you think the time is right.
Cause you’ve heard she’s pretty fast.
And you’re hoping that she’ll give you some tonight.
So, you start to make your play,
Cause you could’ve sworn you thought you heard her saying…
“Good girls don’t,
Good girls don’t,
Good girls don’t, but I do.”
And it’s a teenage sadness
Everyone has got to taste.
An in-between age madness
That you know you can’t erase
Til she’s sitting on your face.
Good girls don’t,
Good girls don’t,
Good girls don’t, but I do…