About the song
“It’s My Party,” an iconic pop song by Lesley Gore from her debut album *I’ll Cry If I Want To* (1963), remains a timeless anthem of teenage angst and empowerment. Co-written by Herb Wiener, John Gluck Jr., and Wally Gold, with production by Quincy Jones, the song captivated audiences upon its release on April 5, 1963, under Mercury Records.
Thematically, “It’s My Party” vividly portrays the heartache of a young girl at her own birthday celebration, where her boyfriend Johnny betrays her by appearing with another girl, Judy, who now wears his ring. This tale of romantic betrayal struck a chord with listeners, resonating with its poignant lyrics and emotionally charged delivery by Gore.
Quincy Jones’s production added depth to the song with Latin-inspired rhythms, double-tracked vocals, and effective horn arrangements, enhancing its impact and creating a memorable sonic experience. Allmusic’s Jason Ankeny praised the song as one of the most evocative portrayals of adolescent heartbreak ever recorded, highlighting its enduring cultural significance.
Originally intended for Barbara Jean English, a receptionist at Aaron Schroeder Music, Gore’s rendition of “It’s My Party” quickly eclipsed expectations. Despite Phil Spector’s interest in recording it with The Crystals, Gore’s version soared to number one on the national charts within four weeks of its release, solidifying her status as a rising star in the music industry.
The song’s popularity spurred a sequel, “Judy’s Turn to Cry,” and has been used in various contexts over the years, from radio marathons to advertising campaigns for Burger King. Its recent resurgence on TikTok in 2021 attests to its enduring appeal and ability to captivate new generations of listeners.
Critically acclaimed for its narrative depth and Gore’s emotive performance, “It’s My Party” remains a cultural touchstone, reflecting the universal themes of teenage heartbreak and empowerment. Its place in music history is secured not only by its chart-topping success but also by its lasting influence on pop music and its continued resonance with audiences worldwide.
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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…