About the song
“Harper Valley PTA,” a song penned by Tom T. Hall, became a breakout hit for Jeannie C. Riley in 1968, marking a pivotal moment in both country music and popular culture. This track, which was Riley’s debut single, catapulted her into the limelight, selling over six million copies and earning her a unique place in music history. Riley’s version of “Harper Valley PTA” achieved the rare feat of topping both the Billboard Hot 100 and the U.S. Hot Country Singles charts, making her the first woman to do so with the same song, a milestone that would not be duplicated until Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” in 1981.
The song’s narrative centers around Mrs. Johnson, a character who becomes the subject of scandalous criticism from the local PTA after her teenage daughter receives a note chastising Mrs. Johnson for her attire and social habits. In a dramatic turn of events, Mrs. Johnson confronts the PTA in a miniskirt, revealing a list of the members’ own indiscretions, effectively turning the tables and exposing their hypocrisy. This bold confrontation highlights themes of double standards and moral judgment, resonating deeply with listeners and sparking significant cultural dialogue.
The song’s success was buoyed by the prominent dobro performance by Nashville studio musician Jerry Kennedy, adding a distinctive touch to the track. Tom T. Hall’s clever lyrics and Riley’s spirited delivery captured the zeitgeist of the era, blending humor with social commentary. The song also features references to contemporary cultural phenomena, including the miniskirt fashion and the television show *Peyton Place*, known for its portrayal of small-town hypocrisy.
“Harper Valley PTA” not only earned Riley a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female, but also received nominations for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Its impact was further solidified with its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2019. The song’s success extended beyond American borders, with international covers and translations, reflecting its universal appeal and the global resonance of its message.
In addition to its commercial and critical acclaim, “Harper Valley PTA” inspired a 1978 motion picture and a short-lived 1981 television series, both starring Barbara Eden as the tenacious Mrs. Johnson. The song even prompted a sequel, “Return to Harper Valley,” recorded by Riley in 1984, though it did not achieve the same level of success.
The song’s enduring popularity and cultural significance are evident in its continued presence in Riley’s concerts and its influence on various media adaptations. “Harper Valley PTA” remains a classic example of how music can address social issues with wit and impact, solidifying its place as a memorable and influential piece of American country music history.
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