In The Pursuit of Happiness: Lesley Gore on feminism

Although I didn’t grow up in the generation of poodle skirts and sock hops, music of the ’50s and ’60s still defined my childhood. It was my early exposure to these tunes during long rides to medical appointments that helped me fall in love with music in the first place. Before long, I had memorized all the words and could even picture myself living back then.

And of course, I loved all the female singers, so I was so saddened to hear of Lesley Gore’s death yesterday from cancer. The early ’60s pop star made her mark with hits like “It’s My Party” and “You Don’t Own Me,” which is my personal favorite — take that, boys! I love what she once said about her signature song…

“As I got older, feminism became more a part of my life and more a part of our whole awareness, and I could see why people would use it as a feminist anthem. I don’t care what are you are — whether you’re 16 or 116 — there’s nothing more wonderful than standing on the stage and shaking your finger and singing, ‘Don’t tell me what to do.’”

Amen! Wouldn’t you agree, friends? Thank you, Lesley, for all the years of inspiration, and for making my childhood so musical. xoxo