You Don’t Own Me was released in 1963 when Gore was just 17 years old. It became a powerful anthem for independence and self-assertion for women. The lyrics convey a message of defiance against possessive or controlling relationships, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. It has been called a feminist anthem with civil rights roots; cementing the idea of empathy for all. Gore’s impassioned delivery and the song’s catchy melody have made it an enduring favorite for generations.

Lesley Gore – You Don’t Own Me Lyrics

You don’t own me
I’m not just one of your many toys
You don’t own me
Don’t say I can’t go with other boys

And don’t tell me what to do
Don’t tell me what to say
And please, when I go out with you
Don’t put me on display ’cause

You don’t own me
Don’t try to change me in any way
You don’t own me
Don’t tie me down ’cause I’d never stay

I don’t tell you what to say
I don’t tell you what to do
So just let me be myself
That’s all I ask of you

I’m young and I love to be young
I’m free and I love to be free
To live my life the way I want
To say and do whatever I please

And don’t tell me what to do
Oh, don’t tell me what to say
And please, when I go out with you
Don’t put me on display

I don’t tell you what to say
Oh, don’t tell you what to do
So just let me be myself
That’s all I ask of you

I’m young and I love to be young
I’m free and I love to be free