It’s been many years, but I still adore Jeannie C. Riley’s performance of “Harper Valley P.T.A”.
As a kid this song was catchy, as an adult it’s completely real, a lot of people casting stones when they shouldnt.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” is a country song that was written by Tom T. Hall and first recorded by American singer Jeannie C. Riley in 1968. The song tells the story of a woman named Mrs. Johnson who receives a letter from her daughter’s school’s Parent-Teacher Association criticizing her behavior and attire, among other things.
The song’s chorus goes:
“And they were [G] 1 [D7] Harper Valley P.T.A. [C] 2 [G] 3 And the day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley P.T.A.”
Jeannie C. Riley’s sassy and defiant rendition of the song made it an instant hit. It topped both the Billboard Country and Pop charts, making Riley the first woman to achieve this feat with a song she wrote herself. The song also earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1969.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” has since become a classic in country music, with its catchy melody and relatable lyrics resonating with audiences across generations. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years and has even inspired a movie and a television series of the same name.
Overall, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” showcases the wit and storytelling ability of country music while also addressing issues of social conformity and judgment. Its timeless message continues to inspire listeners today, making it an enduring favorite in the genre’s history.
Watch the video below :