Introduction:
“Woman, Woman” is an iconic ballad by American pop rock group Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, serving as their debut single and catapulting them to stardom. The song was officially released on September 19, 1967, and quickly became a staple on radio airwaves. It was the title track of their debut album, also titled “Woman, Woman,” which was released in early 1968. The song falls squarely into the pop and pop rock genres, characterized by its melodic structure, lush orchestration, and Gary Puckett’s distinctive, soulful vocal delivery.
Penned by the songwriting duo Jim Glaser and Jimmy Payne, “Woman, Woman” tells the poignant story of a man’s anxiety and suspicion regarding his wife’s fidelity, expressed through a powerful and emotive vocal performance. Its lyrical depth and relatable themes of love, trust, and vulnerability resonated deeply with audiences, contributing significantly to its widespread appeal. The song’s instrumentation, which notably featured session musicians from the renowned “Wrecking Crew,” added a layer of sophisticated production that set it apart.
Upon its release, “Woman, Woman” achieved remarkable commercial success, becoming a major hit for Gary Puckett & The Union Gap. It soared to number 4 on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and reached an impressive number 3 on the Cash Box Top 100. Its success wasn’t limited to the domestic market; the song also found considerable international acclaim, hitting number 1 in Canada and reaching number 7 in Australia. The song’s massive sales led to its certification as a million-selling Gold disc in February 1968, a testament to its widespread popularity. While it had a more modest showing in the UK, peaking at number 48, its impact on the American and Canadian charts solidified Gary Puckett & The Union Gap’s place in the late 1960s music landscape. “Woman, Woman” not only launched their career but also set the stage for a string of subsequent hits, making it a foundational track in their enduring legacy.