About the song
“Girl, You’ll Be a Woman Soon,” penned by Neil Diamond, is a poignant and evocative song that has left an indelible mark on music since its release in 1967. Initially featured on Diamond’s album “Just for You,” the track resonated with audiences, reaching number 10 on the US pop singles chart. Its enduring appeal was revitalized nearly three decades later when it became a standout inclusion on the iconic “Pulp Fiction” soundtrack in 1994, performed with a fresh rock edge by Urge Overkill. This resurgence introduced the song to a new generation and cemented its place in pop culture.
Neil Diamond’s original version of “Girl, You’ll Be a Woman Soon” showcases his distinctive style and lyrical depth. The song unfolds with an earnest narrative of a narrator expressing his romantic feelings towards a young woman. Despite facing disapproval from her circle (“They never get tired of putting me down”), he urges her to trust her own judgment and not be swayed by others’ opinions. This theme of youthful passion and independence resonated strongly during the 1960s and continues to strike a chord with listeners across generations.
Critics praised Diamond’s rendition for its soulful delivery and compelling lyrics, highlighting its “easy rhythm” and emotional resonance. Billboard touted it as a “sure-fire chart topper,” predicting its widespread popularity and enduring appeal. Cash Box similarly lauded its “rhythmic, mid-tempo ballad” nature, foreseeing its impact on the Top 40 charts.
Beyond Diamond’s rendition, “Girl, You’ll Be a Woman Soon” has been revisited and reinterpreted by various artists over the years, each bringing their own unique flavor to the song. Cliff Richard, Jackie Edwards, the Biddu Orchestra, and 16 Volt are among those who have offered their distinctive takes, demonstrating the song’s versatility and enduring relevance in the music industry.
The song’s inclusion in “Pulp Fiction,” set against Quentin Tarantino’s cinematic backdrop, further solidified its status as a cultural touchstone. Urge Overkill’s rendition injected a modern rock sensibility while staying true to the song’s core emotional intensity, captivating audiences anew and sparking renewed interest in Diamond’s classic composition.
“Girl, You’ll Be a Woman Soon” continues to captivate listeners with its timeless themes of love, independence, and the passage of time. Its enduring popularity underscores its status as a musical gem that transcends generations, leaving an enduring legacy in the annals of popular music.
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Lyrics
Girl, you’ll be a woman soon
Love you so much can’t count all the ways
I’d die for you girl and all they can say is
“He’s not your kind”
They never get tired of puttin’ me down and
I never know when I come around
What I’m gonna find
Don’t let them make up your mind
Don’t you know
Girl, you’ll be a woman soon
Please come take my hand
Girl, you’ll be a woman soon
Soon you’ll need a man
I’ve been misunderstood for all of my life
But what they’re sayin’, girl, just cuts like a knife
“The boy’s no good”
Well, I finally found what I’ve been lookin’ for
But if they get a chance they’ll end it for sure
Sure they would
Baby, I’ve done all I could, it’s up to you
Girl, you’ll be a woman soon
Please come take my hand
And girl, you’ll be a woman soon
Soon you’ll need a man
Oh girl, you’ll be a woman soon
Please come take my hand
Girl, you’ll be a woman soon
Soon you’ll need a man
Soon