Introduction:
In 1968, country music took a surprising turn with the release of “Harper Valley P.T.A.” by singer Jeannie C. Riley. The song, written by country music legend Tom T. Hall, became an instant sensation, topping the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart for five weeks and forever changing the genre’s landscape.
Jeannie C. Riley, a newcomer at the time, possessed a powerful, clear voice that perfectly delivered the narrative of “Harper Valley P.T.A.”. The song itself was produced by Jack Clement, a key figure in Sun Studio’s history and known for his work with artists like Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis. Clement would play a pivotal role in shaping the sound of the song and launching Riley’s career.
But “Harper Valley P.T.A.” wasn’t just a catchy tune; it was a cultural phenomenon. The song’s lyrics, which told the story of a single mother named Mrs. Johnson facing criticism from her daughter’s school PTA for her unconventional lifestyle, challenged societal norms and resonated with a generation. Mrs. Johnson’s defiance in the face of judgement sparked conversations about feminism, single parenthood, and the double standards faced by women.
The song’s success was undeniable. “Harper Valley P.T.A.” became a million-seller, earning Jeannie C. Riley a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and the Country Music Association Award for Single of the Year. It crossed over to the pop charts as well, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Harper Valley P.T.A.” was unlike anything country music had heard before, and its influence is still felt today. It paved the way for a new era of storytelling in country music, one that embraced strong female characters and tackled social issues.
However, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” was also met with controversy. The song’s frank lyrics and subject matter caused a stir, with some radio stations refusing to play it. Despite the criticism, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” became an anthem for those who felt ostracized or judged by society. Jeannie C. Riley’s powerful performance and Tom T. Hall’s insightful songwriting created a song that transcended genre and continues to be a touchstone of American culture.
Video:
Lyrics:
I wanna tell you all a story ’boutA Harper Valley widowed wifeWho had a teenage daughterWho attended Harper Valley Junior HighWell, her daughter came home one afternoonAnd didn’t even stop to playAnd she said, “mom, I got a note here from the Harper Valley PTA”
Well, the note said, “Mrs. JohnsonYou’re wearin’ your dresses way too highIt’s reported you’ve been drinkingAnd a-running ’round with men and goin’ wildAnd we don’t believe you oughta be a-bringin’ upYour little girl this way”And it was signed by the SecretaryHarper Valley PTA
Well, it happened that the PTA was gonna meetThat very afternoonAnd they were sure surprisedWhen Mrs. Johnson wore her miniskirt into the roomAnd as she walked up to the blackboardI can still recall the words she had to sayShe said, “I’d like to address this meeting of the Harper Valley PTA
Well, there’s Bobby Taylor sittin’ thereAnd seven times he’s asked me for a dateAnd Mrs. Taylor sure seems to use a lotta iceWhenever he’s awayAnd Mr. Baker can you tell us whyYour secretary had to leave this town?And shouldn’t widow Jones be told to keepHer window shades all pulled completely down
Well, Mr. Harper couldn’t be here‘Cause he stayed too long at Kelly’s Bar againAnd if you smell Shirley Thompson’s breathYou’ll find she’s had a little nip of ginAnd then you have the nerve to tell meYou think that as the mother I’m not fitWell, this is just a little Peyton PlaceAnd you’re all Harper Valley hypocrites”
No, I wouldn’t put you on because it really didIt happened just this wayThe day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTAThe day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA