About the song
“**It’s My Party**,” performed by the iconic Lesley Gore, is a timeless pop classic that resonates with listeners of all ages. Released in 1963, this song quickly became a defining anthem for teenage angst and heartache. Lesley Gore, born Lesley Sue Goldstein, was only 16 years old when she recorded this hit, making her one of the youngest artists to achieve such monumental success.
The song was written by a talented team of songwriters: John Gluck, Wally Gold, Herbert Weiner, and Seymour Gottlieb. It was produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, whose influence and expertise helped shape the track’s unforgettable sound. “It’s My Party” was featured on Lesley Gore’s debut album, “I’ll Cry If I Want To,” which further solidified her place in music history.
Upon its release, “It’s My Party” quickly soared up the charts, reaching the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, which tell the story of a girl heartbroken at her own birthday party, struck a chord with listeners and ensured the song’s enduring popularity. The narrative of teenage betrayal and sorrow is encapsulated perfectly in the memorable chorus, “It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to.”
Over the decades, “It’s My Party” has been covered by numerous artists and remains a beloved fixture on oldies playlists. Lesley Gore’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s universal themes continue to resonate, making it a staple in the canon of classic pop music. This song not only highlights Gore’s vocal talent but also marks a significant moment in pop culture history, reminding us all of the timeless nature of teenage emotions and the power of music to capture them.
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Lyrics
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
Nobody knows where my Johnny has gone
Judy left the same time
Why was he holding her hand
When he’s supposed to be mine?
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
Playin’ my records, keep dancing all night
But leave me alone for a while
‘Til Johnny’s dancing with me
I’ve got no reason to smile
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
Judy and Johnny just walked through the door
Like a queen with her King
Oh, what a birthday surprise
Judy’s wearin’ his ring
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
Oh, it’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you
It’s my party…