About the song
## Harper Valley P.T.A. – Jeannie C. Riley (1967)
**A Suburban Serenade of Rebellion**
Jeannie C. Riley’s “Harper Valley P.T.A.” is a timeless anthem that encapsulates the spirit of a woman standing up against societal norms and expectations. Released in 1967, the song quickly topped the charts and became a cultural phenomenon, resonating with audiences of all ages. With its catchy melody and witty lyrics, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” serves as a poignant commentary on small-town life, female empowerment, and the hypocrisy of organized religion.
The song’s narrative unfolds through the eyes of a woman named Mrs. Johnson, who finds herself ostracized by the local Parent-Teacher Association (P.T.A.) due to a perceived moral failing. However, Mrs. Johnson is not one to be silenced or shamed. With a defiant spirit and a sharp tongue, she delivers a scathing rebuttal to the judgmental members of the P.T.A., exposing their own hidden secrets and hypocrisies.
Riley’s powerful vocals convey a sense of strength, resilience, and unwavering determination. Her delivery is both playful and assertive, capturing the essence of a woman who refuses to be a victim. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, with a driving beat and a memorable chorus that perfectly complements Riley’s vocals.
Beyond its catchy tune and relatable lyrics, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” is a significant cultural artifact that reflects the social and political climate of the 1960s. The song’s themes of female empowerment and social justice resonate with audiences today, as women continue to fight for equality and recognition.
In conclusion, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” is a classic song that has stood the test of time. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody, witty lyrics, and powerful message. Jeannie C. Riley’s masterful performance brings the song to life, making it a timeless anthem of rebellion and empowerment.
Video
Lyrics
I wanna tell you all a story ’bout
A Harper Valley widowed wife
Who had a teenage daughter
Who attended Harper Valley Junior High
Well, her daughter came home one afternoon
And didn’t even stop to play
And she said, “mom, I got a note here from the Harper Valley PTA”
Well, the note said, “Mrs. Johnson
You’re wearin’ your dresses way too high
It’s reported you’ve been drinking
And a-running ’round with men and goin’ wild
And we don’t believe you oughta be a-bringin’ up
Your little girl this way”
And it was signed by the Secretary
Harper Valley PTA
Well, it happened that the PTA was gonna meet
That very afternoon
And they were sure surprised
When Mrs. Johnson wore her miniskirt into the room
And as she walked up to the blackboard
I can still recall the words she had to say
She said, “I’d like to address this meeting of the Harper Valley PTA
Well, there’s Bobby Taylor sittin’ there
And seven times he’s asked me for a date
And Mrs. Taylor sure seems to use a lotta ice
Whenever he’s away
And Mr. Baker can you tell us why
Your secretary had to leave this town?
And shouldn’t widow Jones be told to keep
Her window shades all pulled completely down
Well, Mr. Harper couldn’t be here
‘Cause he stayed too long at Kelly’s Bar again
And if you smell Shirley Thompson’s breath
You’ll find she’s had a little nip of gin
And then you have the nerve to tell me
You think that as the mother I’m not fit
Well, this is just a little Peyton Place
And you’re all Harper Valley hypocrites”
No, I wouldn’t put you on because it really did
It happened just this way
The day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA
The day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA