Song #91: "It's My Party" by Lesley Gore

Date: June 1, 1963
Weeks: 2

A certified classic that succeeds at every level.

Oh, I guess I should say more. But it's just going to be an expansion on "A certified classic that succeeds at every level."

I think the best part of this great song is Lesley Gore's voice. It has a memorable quality to it that is perfectly matched to the song's lyrics. She shows off her range in the verses, and then shows off her power in the chorus. Anyone else might make the chorus sound screechy, but Gore pulls it off.

The backing music is uniformly excellent. Guitar and drums keep the rhythm while a brass section provides transitions, and that's all great stuff. The backup singers are perfectly used. They are the main musical accompaniment through most of the song, and they create a great harmony in the chorus that amplifies Gore's vocal power.

The lyrics are good, although how well they work may vary by person. On the one hand, it's a bunch of teenage drama that most people over the age of 20 don't care about. But on the other hand, it's kind of a classic experience. Haven't we all dealt with inflated teenage emotions around teenage relationships? Haven't we all been sad on an occasion when we were expected to be happy, at any age? Lyrics that reflect a universal experience are a crucial part of any great pop song, and I think these lyrics are universal, whether that is specifically or more generally.

My verdict: Like it. Did I mention this is a certified classic that succeeds at every level?