About the song
Step back to 1968, a year pulsating with cultural revolution and musical innovation. Among the chart-topping anthems of that era emerged a song destined to become a classic – “Lady Willpower” by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap. Penned by the prolific songwriter Jerry Fuller, this captivating tune not only propelled the American band to national stardom but also resonated with audiences worldwide.
“Lady Willpower” wasn’t just another catchy pop song. Its success story is woven with impressive accolades and a captivating journey across the music landscape. The single achieved the prestigious Gold disc certification from the RIAA, signifying over a million copies sold. This commercial triumph was mirrored by critical acclaim, with the song reaching the coveted No. 1 spot on Cashbox’s Top 100 singles chart for a week in 1968. While it narrowly missed the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 2, “Lady Willpower” cemented its place among the year’s most popular tunes. Its appeal transcended genre boundaries, reaching No. 26 on the Easy Listening chart, showcasing its versatility.
The song’s impact wasn’t confined to American shores. “Lady Willpower” captivated listeners across the Atlantic, soaring to No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart. Similar success followed in Australia, where it peaked at No. 4 on the Kent Music Report chart and remained a fixture on the Top 100 for a remarkable 16 weeks.
The enduring legacy of “Lady Willpower” is further evidenced by its enduring appeal. In 2019, the iconic singer Morrissey paid homage to the song by including his own rendition on his album “California Son.” This act of artistic tribute serves as a testament to the song’s timeless quality and its ability to connect with generations of music lovers.
Delving deeper into the song itself unveils a narrative that resonates with the complexities of love and desire. “Lady Willpower” explores the struggle between yielding to temptation and maintaining self-control – a relatable theme that transcends generations. This, coupled with Gary Puckett’s captivating vocals and the band’s infectious melody, ensures “Lady Willpower” remains a treasured gem in the vast tapestry of popular music.
Video
Lyrics
Lady Willpower, it’s now or never
Give your love to me and I’ll shower
Your heart with tenderness endlessly
I know you want to see me but you’re afraid
Of what I might have on my mind
One thing you can be sure of
I’ll take good care of your love
If you will let me give you mine
Lady Willpower, it’s now or never
Give your love to me and I’ll shower
Your heart with tenderness endlessly
Did no one ever tell you the facts of life
Well there’s so much you have to learn
And I would gladly teach you
If I could only reach you
And get your lovin’ in return
Lady Willpower, it’s now or never
Give your love to me and I’ll shower
Your heart with tenderness endlessly