About the song
“You Don’t Own Me” is a timeless pop anthem that has been resonating with audiences for over five decades. Written by John Madara and David White, and recorded by Lesley Gore in 1963, this iconic song has become a symbol of women’s empowerment and a beacon of independence. At just 17 years old, Gore’s powerful vocals and defiant lyrics captured the hearts of millions, making it her second most successful recording and her last top-ten single.
The song’s message of emancipation and self-assertion was revolutionary for its time, and its impact was felt far beyond the music charts. “You Don’t Own Me” became an early feminist anthem, inspiring younger women to stand up for themselves and challenge the societal norms that sought to constrain them. The song’s lyrics, which boldly declare “You don’t own me, don’t try to change me,” have been cited as a factor in the development of the second wave feminist movement.
Gore’s performance of the song was nothing short of iconic, with her emotive delivery and conviction making the lyrics feel like a personal declaration of independence. The song’s production, featuring a throbbing beat and lush harmonies, added to its emotional impact, making it a standout hit of the early 1960s.
Despite being released over 50 years ago, “You Don’t Own Me” remains a powerful and relevant song, with its message of female empowerment and self-assertion continuing to resonate with audiences today. The song’s induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2016 was a testament to its enduring impact, and its influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in Gore’s footsteps.
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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