About the song
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” is a remarkable and culturally significant song performed by Jeannie C. Riley. Released in August 1968, this song swiftly rose to prominence and became a defining hit of Riley’s career. The song was written by the prolific songwriter Tom T. Hall, who crafted a narrative that resonated with listeners across America.
The song tells the story of a widowed mother who receives a letter from the Harper Valley Parent-Teacher Association, criticizing her lifestyle and attire. In a bold move, she confronts the hypocritical members of the P.T.A. at a meeting, exposing their own indiscretions and double standards. This powerful narrative of standing up against judgmental and hypocritical behavior struck a chord with many, particularly during the social changes of the late 1960s.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” was an immediate commercial success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Riley the first woman to achieve this feat with a debut single since 1953. The song also reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, cementing its crossover appeal and Riley’s place in music history. Additionally, it won Riley a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, further highlighting the song’s impact and her remarkable vocal delivery.
The song’s success led to a broader cultural impact, inspiring a 1978 film and a subsequent television series, both titled “Harper Valley P.T.A.,” starring Barbara Eden. These adaptations expanded on the song’s themes and characters, further embedding the story into American popular culture.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” remains a classic, celebrated for its sharp social commentary and Riley’s spirited performance. It continues to be a beloved anthem for those who appreciate its message of courage and integrity in the face of unfair criticism. For many, it serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for oneself and challenging societal norms. The song’s enduring popularity attests to its powerful storytelling and the timeless appeal of its bold, rebellious spirit.
Video
Lyrics
I wanna tell you all a story ’bout
A Harper Valley widowed wife
Who had a teenage daughter
Who attended Harper Valley Junior High
Well, her daughter came home one afternoon
And didn’t even stop to play
And she said, “mom, I got a note here from the Harper Valley PTA”
Well, the note said, “Mrs. Johnson
You’re wearin’ your dresses way too high
It’s reported you’ve been drinking
And a-running ’round with men and goin’ wild
And we don’t believe you oughta be a-bringin’ up
Your little girl this way”
And it was signed by the Secretary
Harper Valley PTA
Well, it happened that the PTA was gonna meet
That very afternoon
And they were sure surprised
When Mrs. Johnson wore her miniskirt into the room
And as she walked up to the blackboard
I can still recall the words she had to say
She said, “I’d like to address this meeting of the Harper Valley PTA
Well, there’s Bobby Taylor sittin’ there
And seven times he’s asked me for a date
And Mrs. Taylor sure seems to use a lotta ice
Whenever he’s away
And Mr. Baker can you tell us why
Your secretary had to leave this town?
And shouldn’t widow Jones be told to keep
Her window shades all pulled completely down
Well, Mr. Harper couldn’t be here
‘Cause he stayed too long at Kelly’s Bar again
And if you smell Shirley Thompson’s breath
You’ll find she’s had a little nip of gin
And then you have the nerve to tell me
You think that as the mother I’m not fit
Well, this is just a little Peyton Place
And you’re all Harper Valley hypocrites”
No, I wouldn’t put you on because it really did
It happened just this way
The day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA
The day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA