About the song
Introduction to “Papa, Won’t You Let Me Go To Town With You” by Bobbie Gentry
Bobbie Gentry’s “Papa, Won’t You Let Me Go To Town With You” is a timeless country ballad released in 1967. This song, often regarded as one of the cornerstones of the countrypolitan sound, offers a poignant glimpse into the life of a young woman yearning for independence and adventure beyond the confines of her rural upbringing.
The narrative is simple yet evocative. A teenage girl, longing to break free from the monotony of farm life, pleads with her father for permission to accompany him on his weekly trip to town. Her desire to experience the world beyond her familiar surroundings is palpable, and her words resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pull of the unknown.
Musically, the song is characterized by a gentle, swaying rhythm and Gentry’s distinctive, soulful vocals. The arrangement is sparse, allowing her voice and the evocative lyrics to take center stage. The steel guitar, a staple of country music, adds a touch of melancholy and nostalgia, perfectly complementing the song’s themes of longing and yearning.
“Papa, Won’t You Let Me Go To Town With You” was a commercial success, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It also crossed over to the pop charts, reaching number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and its ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
Gentry’s performance is both vulnerable and strong. Her voice conveys a sense of longing and hope, as well as a hint of rebellion. The song’s lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and memorable phrases, such as “I wanna see the world go round and round.” These words have resonated with generations of listeners, and the song has become an anthem for those seeking to break free from the constraints of their circumstances.
Beyond its commercial success, “Papa, Won’t You Let Me Go To Town With You” is significant for its contributions to the countrypolitan sound. This subgenre of country music, which blended elements of country, pop, and folk, emerged in the 1960s and helped to modernize the sound of country music. Gentry’s recording is a prime example of this sound, and it helped to pave the way for other female country artists.
In conclusion, “Papa, Won’t You Let Me Go To Town With You” is a classic country ballad that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Its themes of longing, independence, and the desire to explore the world are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released. Bobbie Gentry’s powerful performance and the song’s timeless melody have ensured its place in the country music canon.
Video
Lyrics
Papa, won’t you let me go to town with you?
Papa, I’m feelin’ so down and blue
You just gotta come around, please do
Papa, won’t you let me go to town with you?
There’s a blue dress at Dindy’s I’d give the world to see again
I need some hand lotion and some powder from the five and ten
Buy us some chocolate and I’ll make you a pretty pie
If you don’t let me go I’ll just die
Papa, won’t you let me go to town with you?
Papa, I’m feelin’ so down and blue
You just gotta come around, please do
Papa, won’t you let me go to town with you?
I gotta pick up a pattern, Aunt Nora’s makin’ me a dress
I scrubbed it this mornin’, what d’ya mean this floor’s a mess?
I done everything you said, and then some ya didn’t say to do
You just gotta take me with you
Papa, won’t you let me go to town with you?
Papa, I’m feelin’ so down and blue
You just gotta come around, please do
Papa, won’t you let me go to town with you?
Looky here Papa, I found your other Sunday shoe
I shined it and I shined it ’til it looks all brand spankin’ new
Seems like a year I’ve been waitin’ for the day
If you let me go I won’t get in your way
Papa, won’t you let me go to town with you?
Papa, I’m feelin’ so down and blue
You just gotta come around, please do
Papa, won’t you let me go to town with you?
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