About the song
“Hey Now” by Lesley Gore is a delightful and emotionally poignant track that showcases the artist’s ability to capture both the excitement and the vulnerability of young love. Released in 1964, the song is part of Gore’s debut album, I’ll Cry If I Want To, which became a significant milestone in her career. Known for her expressive voice and her ability to convey raw emotion, Lesley Gore became an icon of 1960s pop music, and “Hey Now” stands as one of her most beloved hits. The track, like many of her others, speaks directly to the heart of listeners, offering both a sense of empowerment and a touch of heartbreak.
The release date of “Hey Now” was 1964, a time when Lesley Gore was still very young but already making waves in the music industry. At just 17 years old, she had already hit it big with her breakout song, “It’s My Party,” and followed it up with more chart-topping hits. “Hey Now” wasn’t as commercially successful as some of her earlier songs, but it quickly became a fan favorite, appreciated for its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song is a perfect example of Gore’s ability to blend teen angst with sweet melodies, which resonated strongly with young audiences during the 1960s.
The meaning of “Hey Now” revolves around the theme of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that often accompanies the experience. In the song, Lesley Gore sings about a love that seems just out of reach, expressing feelings of longing and desire. The lyrics “Hey now, don’t you see? I’m in love with you” reflect a sense of vulnerability, as the singer’s emotions are laid bare in the hopes of winning over the object of her affection. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm offer a contrast to the more bittersweet nature of the lyrics, creating a dynamic blend of emotions that captures the complexities of youth and romance. The music itself, with its bright instrumentation, is simultaneously playful and wistful, making it a memorable addition to Gore’s catalog.
On a societal level, “Hey Now” reflects the teenage experience of the 1960s, a decade that was heavily influenced by the rise of youth culture and the increasing presence of teenagers in popular media. This period saw a surge in music that spoke directly to young people’s emotions and experiences, and Lesley Gore’s songs were a key part of that cultural moment. Tracks like “Hey Now” offered a voice to a generation navigating the complexities of love, identity, and self-expression. In many ways, Gore’s songs, with their relatable lyrics and catchy tunes, helped to shape the sound of teenage pop in the 1960s and beyond.
The impact of “Hey Now” on Lesley Gore’s career is significant, as it helped to further establish her as one of the leading female pop artists of the era. While she may be best remembered for her breakout hit “It’s My Party,” “Hey Now” is a testament to her ability to tap into the emotional undercurrents of her generation. Gore’s unique voice, combined with her knack for telling stories of love, heartbreak, and joy, allowed her to become a lasting influence on both the pop music landscape and on future generations of female artists. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength through music continues to inspire new listeners.
In conclusion, “Hey Now” by Lesley Gore is a perfect example of the sweet and emotive pop music that defined the 1960s. It blends upbeat, catchy melodies with deeply personal lyrics about love and longing, making it a standout track in Gore’s early career. The song’s enduring popularity lies not just in its musicality but also in its ability to resonate with listeners who have experienced the highs and lows of young love. Lesley Gore remains a beloved figure in pop music, and “Hey Now” is a testament to her ability to capture the spirit of an era while still creating music that continues to touch the hearts of listeners today.
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Lyrics
Hey now (ah ah), what you gonna do (ah ah)Oh, are you gonna be mine (ah ah) tried and true (ah ah)Hey hey hey now (ah ah), give it to me straight (ah ah)?Am I gonna be the one (ah ah) or just another date (ah ah)?Look-a here, umm, I gotta know quickBecause I can’t waste my time just waitin’ round your lineWhen I can find another guySo hey hey hey now (ah ah), what you gonna say (ah ah)?Are you gonna go on (ah ah) or are you gonna stay (ah ah)?Wo oh right here, oh I gotta know, dearBecause I can’t waste my time just waitin’ round your lineWhen I can find another guy, soHey hey hey now (ah ah), umm, what you gonna say (ah ah)?Are you gonna go on (ah ah) or are you gonna stay (ah ah)?I said hey hey hey now (ah ah), umm, what you gonna say (ah ah)?Ooh, are you gonna go on (ah ah) or are you gonna stay (ah ah)?Ah, hey hey hey now (ah ah), umm, what you gonna say (ah ah)?Umm, are you gonna go on (ah ah) or are you gonna stay (ah ah)?