“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Young Girl” by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap is a classic pop song from the late 1960s that captures the essence of its era with its lush orchestration and compelling narrative. Released in 1968, the song quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the defining tracks of the band’s career. Known for its dramatic and emotional delivery, “Young Girl” highlights the vocal prowess of Gary Puckett and the tight musical backing of The Union Gap.
About The Composition
- Title: Young Girl
- Composer: Jerry Fuller
- Premiere Date: March 1968
- Album/Opus/Collection: Young Girl
- Genre: Pop
Background
“Young Girl” was written by Jerry Fuller, a renowned songwriter and producer, who contributed significantly to the success of Gary Puckett & The Union Gap. The song became an instant hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying the band’s place in pop music history. Its theme, revolving around a man’s realization of a young girl’s age and the subsequent moral dilemma, resonated with audiences, capturing the complex emotions of the narrative through its poignant lyrics.
The song’s success was not just limited to the United States; it also achieved international acclaim. It topped the charts in several countries, including the United Kingdom, where it reached number one. This global reach underscored the universal appeal of its storyline and musical composition.
Musical Style
“Young Girl” is characterized by its orchestral pop sound, featuring lush string arrangements that complement Puckett’s powerful and emotive vocals. The song’s structure builds tension through its dynamic verses and soaring chorus, creating a dramatic musical landscape that enhances the lyrical content.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical theme of “Young Girl” deals with the moral conflict of a man discovering the youthful age of a girl he is romantically interested in. The narrative unfolds as he implores her to leave before their relationship progresses further, highlighting the internal struggle between desire and ethics.
Performance History
The song has been performed numerous times by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap during their tours in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It remains a staple in their live performances and has been covered by various artists over the years, maintaining its presence in the repertoire of pop standards.
Cultural Impact
“Young Girl” has left a lasting impression on popular culture, frequently appearing in various media formats. Its memorable melody and storyline have been referenced in films and television, showcasing its enduring relevance and the way it encapsulates the moral complexities of romantic relationships.
Legacy
Today, “Young Girl” continues to be appreciated as a classic pop song that captures the intricate emotions of its time. Its enduring popularity is evident through its continued airplay on oldies radio stations and inclusion in compilation albums, ensuring that new generations discover its timeless appeal.
Conclusion
“Young Girl” by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap is a testament to the power of music to convey deep emotional narratives. Its rich orchestration and poignant lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, inviting them to explore the complexities of human relationships through song. I encourage you to delve deeper into the music of the 1960s to appreciate the cultural and artistic context that gave rise to such iconic tracks.
Video
Lyrics
Young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
Better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
With all the charms of a woman
You’ve kept the secret of your youth
You led me to believe you’re old enough
To give me Love
And now it hurts to know the truth
Whoa, oh, oh, young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
Better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
Beneath your perfume and make-up
You’re just a baby in disguise
And though you know that it’s wrong to be
Alone with me
That come on look is in your eyes
Whoa, oh, oh, young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
Better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
So hurry home to your mama
I’m sure she wonders where you are
Get out of here before I have the time
To change my mind
‘Cause I’m afraid we’ll go too far
Whoa, oh, oh, young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
Better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
Young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you is way out of line
Better run, girl
You’re much too young, girl
Young girl
Get out of my mind
My love for you