About The Song
“Leader of the Pack” is a classic song by The Shangri-Las, known for its dramatic narrative and memorable melody. Let’s delve into the details of this iconic track:
Background:
- Release: “Leader of the Pack” was released as a single by The Shangri-Las in 1964.
- Album: It was featured on the group’s album “Leader of the Pack.”
- Writers: The song was written by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and George “Shadow” Morton.
Musical Style:
- Genre: The song falls within the genre of pop rock, with elements of girl group and teen melodrama.
- Arrangement: “Leader of the Pack” features a driving beat, dramatic orchestration, and the iconic sound of motorcycle revving, adding to the song’s narrative intensity.
- Vocals: The Shangri-Las deliver emotive vocals, blending harmonies with lead singer Mary Weiss’s powerful and expressive delivery.
Lyrics:
- Theme: The lyrics of “Leader of the Pack” tell the tragic story of a teenage girl who falls in love with a rebellious motorcycle rider, only to face heartbreak and loss.
- Narrative: The song’s narrative unfolds through spoken-word interludes and vivid storytelling, capturing the excitement, danger, and ultimately, the tragedy of young love.
- Emotion: Through poignant lyrics and evocative imagery, the song explores themes of rebellion, passion, and the consequences of societal expectations.
Cultural Impact:
- Chart Success: “Leader of the Pack” achieved significant success on the charts, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.
- Legacy: The song has endured as a classic of 1960s pop music, beloved for its melodramatic storyline, catchy melody, and memorable production.
- Influence: “Leader of the Pack” has inspired numerous cover versions and has been referenced in popular culture, cementing its status as an iconic song of its era.
Conclusion:
“Leader of the Pack” stands as a quintessential example of the girl group sound of the 1960s, combining catchy melodies with dramatic storytelling. With its memorable lyrics, emotive vocals, and distinctive production, the song continues to captivate audiences and remains a timeless classic in the annals of pop music history.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Is she really going out with him?
Well, there she is. Let’s ask her.
Betty, is that Jimmy’s ring you’re wearing?
Mm-hmm
Gee, it must be great riding with him
Is he picking you up after school today?
Uh-uh
By the way, where’d you meet him?
I met him at the candy store
He turned around and smiled at me
You get the picture? (yes, we see)
That’s when I fell for the leader of the pack
My folks were always putting him down (down, down)
They said he came from the wrong side of town
(Whatcha mean when ya say that he came from the wrong side of town?)
They told me he was bad
But I knew he was sad
That’s why I fell for the leader of the pack
One day my dad said, “Find someone new”
I had to tell my Jimmy we’re through
(Whatcha mean when ya say that ya better go find somebody new?)
He stood there and asked me why
But all I could do was cry
I’m sorry I hurt you the leader of the pack
He sort of smiled and kissed me goodbye
The tears were beginning to show
As he drove away on that rainy night
I begged him to go slow
But whether he heard, I’ll never know
Look out! Look out! Look out! Look out!
I felt so helpless, what could I do?
Remembering all the things we’d been through
In school they all stop and stare
I can’t hide the tears, but I don’t care
I’ll never forget him, the leader of the pack
The leader of the pack – now he’s gone
The leader of the pack – now he’s gone
The leader of the pack – now he’s gone
The leader of the pack – now he’s gone