About the song
Let me introduce you to a timeless classic from the 1960s, “Leader of the Pack” by The Shangri-Las. This iconic song, released in 1964, is a prime example of the girl group sound that dominated the airwaves during that era. The Shangri-Las, consisting of members Mary Weiss, Betty Weiss, Mary Ann Ganser, and Margie Ganser, brought a unique blend of harmony and edge to the music scene, and “Leader of the Pack” remains one of their most enduring hits.
Written by George “Shadow” Morton, Jeff Barry, and Ellie Greenwich, “Leader of the Pack” tells the tragic tale of a rebellious teenage girl who falls in love with a motorcycle-riding bad boy, only to face heartbreak and loss. The song’s dramatic narrative, coupled with its driving beat and powerful vocals, struck a chord with audiences and catapulted it to the top of the charts.
Originally featured on The Shangri-Las’ debut album, “Leader of the Pack” quickly climbed to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, solidifying the group’s place in music history. Its success extended beyond American shores, reaching the top five in the UK Singles Chart as well.
The song’s popularity endures to this day, its memorable melody and poignant lyrics continuing to resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you’re revisiting the golden era of 1960s music or discovering it for the first time, “Leader of the Pack” by The Shangri-Las is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
Mm–“Is she really going out with him?
“Well, there she is, Let’s ask her”
“Betty, is that Jimmy’s ring you’re wearing?”
“Mm-hm”
“Gee, it must be great riding with him”
“Is he picking you up after school today?”
“Mm-mm”
“By the way, where did you meet him?”“I met him at the candy store
He turned around and smiled at me
You get the picture
“Yes, we see”
That’s when I fell for the leader of the packMy folks were always putting him down
They said he came from the wrong side of town
They told me he was bad but I knew he was sad
That’s why I fell for the leader of the packOne day my dad said find someone new
I had to tell my Jimmy we’re through
He stood there and asked me why, but all I could do was cry
I’m sorry I hurt you, the leader of the packDo do
He sort of smiled and kissed me good bye
The tears were beginning to show
As he drove away on that rainy night,
I begged him to go slow, whether he heard,
I’ll never know Look out! Look out! Look out!I felt so helpless, what could I do
Remembering all the things we’d been through?
In school they all stop and stare
I can’t hide the tears, but I don’t care
I’ll never forget him, the leader of the packOoh, the leader of the pack now he’s gone
the leader of the pack now he’s gone
the leader of the pack now he’s gone