About the song
“Return to Harper Valley” is a captivating song by Jeannie C. Riley, an artist best known for her iconic hit “Harper Valley P.T.A.” Released in 1968, “Harper Valley P.T.A.” quickly became a sensation, catapulting Riley to fame and establishing her as a voice for the rebellious and independent women of the time. The song’s success led to various follow-up tracks and performances, with “Return to Harper Valley” being one of the most notable.
In 1984, Riley brought “Return to Harper Valley” to life in a live performance that resonated with audiences who had followed her career since the late 1960s. This song revisits the fictional town of Harper Valley, where the original narrative of social hypocrisy and small-town gossip unfolded. Riley’s live performance in 1984 added a layer of nostalgia, as she reconnected with fans and reminded them of the impact that “Harper Valley P.T.A.” had on country music and popular culture.
The live rendition of “Return to Harper Valley” showcased Riley’s enduring vocal talent and stage presence. Despite the years that had passed since her initial rise to fame, Riley’s performance was as vibrant and spirited as ever. She delivered the song with a sense of authority and confidence, which resonated with her audience, many of whom had grown up listening to her music.
“Return to Harper Valley” serves as a continuation of the story that made Riley a household name. The song revisits the themes of challenging societal norms and confronting hypocrisy, which were so powerfully addressed in the original “Harper Valley P.T.A.” Riley’s ability to revisit these themes in a way that felt fresh and relevant speaks to her skill as a storyteller and performer.
The 1984 live performance of “Return to Harper Valley” stands as a testament to Jeannie C. Riley’s lasting influence on country music. It highlights her ability to connect with audiences through relatable storytelling and her knack for addressing social issues in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. For fans of Riley, this performance is a cherished reminder of her contribution to the genre and her unique place in the history of country music.
Video
Lyrics
Y’all remember harper valley
And the harper valley pta
Well, have you ever wondered where they are
And what those folks are doin’ today
Now, things have changed a lot,
But we all seem to understand things better by and by
Now, my daughter is the mother of two children
At the harper valley highWell, the daughter came to see me
Sellin’ tickets for the high school dance
I could win a brand new album by some stray cats
If i’d only buy a chance
Well, i bought the tickets and the chance
To win a brand new rock ‘n’ roll lp
And when friday came, i walked into the place
My dress was well below my kneesNow, mr. harper took my ticket and
He smiled at me sober as a judge
Shirley thompson, she was there with him
She shook my hand and then gave me a hug
Ya know, they’re married now, and my,
They look so happy and contented side by side
And to my surprise, bobby taylor never
Took his eyes off of his wifeMr. baker stirred the punch
It was lemonade with nothin’ on the side
His secretary smiled at me
And said she was so happy as his bride
Widow jones is dead, she and a young kid
Missed a curve on lover’s lane
Mr. kelley’s gone, he drank until
They said it took his liver and his brainNow, the music started up
And it was louder than a thunder storm in may
Well, i stood there and i laughed
To see the way the kids all get their kicks today
Then i saw a man who gave a cigarette
To some small kid too young to smoke
He was a full-grown man and he was set up
In the parkin’ lot sellin’ dopeWell, i walked around the place
And saw the drummer sniffin’ powder up his nose
Then i walked out through the parkin’ lot
And saw these kids were takin’ off their clothes
They were drinkin’ beer and poppin’ pills
And actin’ like they were all havin’ fun
I got so mad, i thought at first i’d go
Back to the house and get a gunThen i went back to my home and took
My bible out and said a little prayer
Now, tomorrow, i can tell ’em that
God loves ’em and i tell ’em that i care
I think back fifteen years ago when
I was wild and wore a mini skirt
Ain’t no way i can explain the things i did
Or the people that i hurtWell, the music keeps on ringin’ in my ears
And i can hear the drummer’s beat
I can see the way things are and i can see
The way the kids are thinkin’ needs
Well, tomorrow afternoon, the pta’ll meet
And i got things to say
To a brand new generation of the harper valley pta
To a brand new generation of the harper valley pta