Introduction:
“Lady Willpower” is a pop song by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, released in June 1968 as part of their album “Incredible.” Written and produced by Jerry Fuller, the track showcases the band’s signature orchestral pop style, characterized by lush arrangements and Puckett’s powerful tenor vocals.
Upon its release, “Lady Willpower” achieved significant commercial success. In the United States, it reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, held from the top spot by Hugh Masekela’s “Grazing in the Grass.” The song also peaked at No. 26 on the Easy Listening chart and was ranked No. 34 on Billboard’s Year-End Hot 100 singles of 1968. Internationally, it secured the No. 5 position on the UK Singles Chart and climbed to No. 4 on Australia’s Kent Music Report.
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified “Lady Willpower” as a million-selling Gold disc, marking it as one of the band’s most successful releases. This achievement followed the success of their earlier hits like “Woman, Woman” and “Young Girl,” solidifying the group’s prominence in the late 1960s pop scene.
The song’s lyrics narrate a man’s plea for his love interest to abandon her reservations and fully embrace their romantic relationship. This theme of persuasive romance was a common thread in several of the band’s hits, contributing to their appeal during that era.
In 2019, British singer Morrissey included a cover of “Lady Willpower” on his album “California Son,” introducing the classic hit to a new generation of listeners and highlighting its enduring appeal.
“Lady Willpower” remains a testament to Gary Puckett & The Union Gap’s influence in the pop music landscape of the 1960s, reflecting the era’s musical trends and the band’s distinctive sound.