About the song
“Young Girl” by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap is a timeless classic that encapsulates the emotional turmoil of discovering a troubling truth about a romantic interest. Released in 1968, this RIAA Gold-certified hit was penned by Jerry Fuller and produced with the instrumental prowess of “The Wrecking Crew,” adding a layer of musical finesse to its poignant lyrics.
The song resonated deeply with audiences, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and securing the top spot on the UK Singles Chart and US Cash Box listing. Its success extended to South Africa, where it climbed to No. 2, highlighting its international appeal and lasting impact.
At its core, “Young Girl” explores a narrative where the protagonist grapples with an unexpected revelation about his partner’s age. The lyrics unfold from his perspective, expressing his distress and moral dilemma as he realizes the girl is underage: “Get out of here / before I have the time / to change my mind / ’cause I’m afraid we’ll go too far.” This introspective theme struck a chord with listeners, offering a cautionary tale amidst its melodic arrangement and heartfelt delivery.
In the UK, the song enjoyed a resurgence in 1974 as part of CBS Records’ “Hall of Fame Hits,” reaffirming its status as a classic. Its re-release reignited interest, propelling it once again onto the charts, where it peaked at No. 6, further solidifying its enduring popularity and cultural relevance.
“Young Girl” remains a standout in the annals of pop music, not only for its chart-topping success but also for its ability to provoke thought and reflection through its lyrics. It continues to be celebrated for its musical craftsmanship and its exploration of a complex and morally charged narrative, making it a quintessential piece of the 1960s music landscape.
Video
Lyrics
Young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
Better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
With all the charms of a woman
You’ve kept the secret of your youth
You led me to believe you’re old enough
To give me love
And now it hurts to know the truth
Woah, oh, oh
Young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
You’d better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
Beneath your perfume and make-up
You’re just a baby in disguise
And though you know
That it’s wrong to be
Alone with me
That ‘come on’ look is in your eyes
Woah, oh, oh
Young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
Better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
So hurry home to your mama
I’m sure she wonders where you are
Get out of here
Before I have the time
To change my mind
‘Cause I’m afraid we’ll go too far
Woah, oh, oh
Young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
You’d better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
Young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
You’d better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
Young girl
Get out of my mind