About the song
Bobbie Gentry’s “Fancy”: A Timeless Tale of Transformation
Bobbie Gentry’s 1969 country crossover hit, “Fancy,” is more than just a song; it’s a captivating narrative that has resonated with audiences for generations. This poignant ballad, penned by Gentry herself, tells the story of a young woman’s journey from poverty to prosperity, offering a compelling exploration of themes such as class, ambition, and the complexities of the American Dream.
Released in 1969, “Fancy” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100. Its success can be attributed to several factors, including Gentry’s evocative storytelling, the song’s catchy melody, and the relatable themes it explores. The track’s narrative follows a young girl who is forced into a life of prostitution but eventually escapes her circumstances and achieves wealth and fame.
Gentry’s rich, soulful vocals and the song’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist’s experiences. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and poetic language, delve into the emotional complexities of the character’s journey. For example, the line “And I learned to put my past behind me and to face each day with a smile” speaks to the resilience and determination of the woman as she overcomes adversity.
Musically, “Fancy” is a masterclass in country pop. The arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring a prominent acoustic guitar, gentle strings, and a subtle pedal steel guitar. This understated instrumentation allows Gentry’s vocals to take center stage, emphasizing the emotional depth of the song.
Beyond its commercial success, “Fancy” has had a significant cultural impact. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Reba McEntire, who released a popular version in the 1990s. Furthermore, “Fancy” has been the subject of academic analysis and has been cited as an important example of feminist country music.
What makes “Fancy” so enduring? Perhaps it is the song’s universal themes of hope, perseverance, and the desire for a better life. The story of a woman who rises above her circumstances is one that has resonated with audiences across generations. Additionally, the song’s exploration of class and gender roles has made it a relevant topic of conversation even today.
In conclusion, Bobbie Gentry’s “Fancy” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners. Its compelling narrative, memorable melody, and enduring themes have cemented its place in the pantheon of great country songs. Whether you are a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, “Fancy” is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
I remember it all very well lookin’ back
It was the summer I turned eighteen
We lived in a one-room, run down shack
On the outskirts of New Orleans
We didn’t have money for food or rent
To say the least we were hard-pressed
Then Momma spent every last penny we had
To buy me a dancin’ dress
Momma washed and combed and curled my hair
And she painted my eyes and lips
Then I stepped into the satin dancin’ dress
It was split in the side clean up to my hips
It was red, velvet-trimmed
And it fit me good
And starin’ back from the lookin’ glass
Was a woman where a half-grown kid had stood
“Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Lord, forgive me for what I do (Please)
But if you want out, well it’s up to you
Now, don’t let me down
Your Momma’s gonna help you move uptown”
(Don’t let me down, don’t let me down)
Momma dabbed a little bit of perfume on my neck
And she kissed my cheek
Then, I saw the tears well up in her troubled eyes
When she started to speak
She looked at our pitiful shack and then
She looked at me and took a ragged breath
“Your Pa’s runned off, and I’m real sick
And the baby’s gonna starve to death”
She handed me a heart-shaped locket that said
“To thine own self be true”
And I shivered as I watched a roach crawl across
The toe of my high-heel shoe
It sounded like somebody else that was talking
Askin’ “Momma what do I do?”
“Just be nice to the gentlemen, Fancy
And they’ll be nice to you”
“Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Lord, forgive me for what I do (please)
But if you want out, well it’s up to you
Now get on out, girl, you better start movin’ uptown”
Well, that was the last time I saw my Ma
The night I left that rickety shack
‘Cause welfare people came and took the baby
Mom died and I ain’t been back
But the wheels of fate had started to turn
And for me there was no way out
And it wasn’t very long ’til I knew exactly
What my Momma been talkin’ about
I did what I had to do
But I made myself this solemn vow
That I was gonna to be a lady someday
Though I didn’t know when or how
I couldn’t see spendin’ the rest of my life
With my head hung down in shame
I mighta been born just plain white trash
But Fancy was my name
“Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down”
Wasn’t long after a benevolent man
Took me in off the street
And one week later I was pourin’ his tea
In a five-room hotel suite (yes, she was)
Well, I’ve charmed a king, a congressman
And an occasional aristocrat
And I got me a Georgia mansion
And an elegant New York townhouse flat
And I ain’t done bad (she ain’t done bad)
Now, in this world there’s a lot of self-righteous hypocrites
That would call me bad
And criticize my Momma for turnin’ me out
No matter how little we had
And though I ain’t had to worry about nothin’
But now on fifteen years
I can still hear the desperation
In my poor Momma’s voice ringin’ in my ear
“Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Lord, forgive me for what I do (please)
But if you want out, well it’s up to you
Now, don’t let me down
Your Momma’s gonna help you move uptown”
And I guess she did