About the song
Lesley Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me,” a defiant anthem released in 1963, stands as a testament to female empowerment and a precursor to the second-wave feminist movement. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its bold declaration of independence, a message that resonated with audiences of all ages at the time and continues to inspire today.
Written by John Madara and David White, the song’s lyrics present a powerful challenge to societal norms and expectations. The protagonist, a young woman, asserts her autonomy, refusing to be defined or controlled by a possessive lover. She rejects the double standards often imposed on women, demanding equality and respect. Gore’s spirited delivery, coupled with the song’s catchy melody, transformed “You Don’t Own Me” into a cultural touchstone.
Beyond its commercial success, the song’s impact extends far beyond its initial release. It became a symbol of female empowerment, inspiring countless women to challenge traditional gender roles and embrace their individuality. The song’s enduring popularity and its inclusion in the Grammy Hall of Fame solidify its status as a timeless classic.
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Lyrics
You don’t own me
I’m not just one of your many toys
You don’t own me
Don’t say I can’t go with other boys
And don’t tell me what to do
Don’t tell me what to say
And please, when I go out with you
Don’t put me on display ’cause
You don’t own me
Don’t try to change me in any way
You don’t own me
Don’t tie me down ’cause I’d never stay
I don’t tell you what to say
I don’t tell you what to do
So just let me be myself
That’s all I ask of you
I’m young and I love to be young
I’m free and I love to be free
To live my life the way I want
To say and do whatever I please
And don’t tell me what to do
Oh, don’t tell me what to say
And please, when I go out with you
Don’t put me on display
I don’t tell you what to say
Oh, don’t tell you what to do
So just let me be myself
That’s all I ask of you
I’m young and I love to be young
I’m free and I love to be free