About the song
“I Struck a Match” by Lesley Gore is a heartfelt and evocative song that highlights the emotional depth and vocal brilliance of one of the 1960s’ most iconic singers. Released in 1964 as part of her album “Girl Talk”, this track showcases Gore’s ability to balance poignant storytelling with an irresistible melody, making it a standout piece in her extensive discography.
Lesley Gore rose to fame as a teenager with her unforgettable hits like “It’s My Party” and “You Don’t Own Me,” but her lesser-known songs, such as “I Struck a Match”, reveal the nuanced artistry that made her a pioneer in the pop music world. “Girl Talk”, the album that features this track, delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, reflecting the experiences of young women navigating the complexities of relationships and personal identity during the mid-20th century.
At its core, “I Struck a Match” is a metaphorical exploration of fleeting love and the pain of unfulfilled expectations. The song uses the imagery of striking a match to symbolize the spark of a romantic connection, only for it to burn out quickly, leaving behind a sense of longing and disillusionment. Lyrics like “I struck a match to light the flame / But it went out in the rain” capture the bittersweet nature of love that fails to ignite fully or endure. Gore’s vocal delivery is both tender and powerful, conveying vulnerability and strength in equal measure.
Musically, “I Struck a Match” features lush orchestration typical of the era, with its sweeping string arrangements and gentle percussion providing a rich backdrop for Gore’s emotive vocals. The song’s arrangement is a perfect blend of pop sensibility and emotional depth, demonstrating the meticulous craftsmanship that went into creating her music. It’s a reminder of how the sound of the 1960s pop genre was evolving, with artists like Gore incorporating more sophisticated elements into their work.
The social and cultural significance of “I Struck a Match” lies in its representation of the emotional experiences of women during a time when the music industry was largely dominated by male voices and perspectives. Lesley Gore was not just a performer but also a trailblazer who used her music to articulate the thoughts and feelings of her audience, particularly young women. Songs like this one resonated deeply with listeners, offering a sense of connection and understanding during an era of shifting social norms.
In summary, “I Struck a Match” is a gem in Lesley Gore’s catalog that combines poetic lyrics, a captivating melody, and a poignant narrative. It’s a testament to Gore’s ability to craft music that speaks to the heart, transcending its time to remain meaningful and relatable even decades later. For those who appreciate the artistry of 1960s pop music, this song is a beautiful reminder of why Lesley Gore remains a beloved figure in the history of popular music.
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Lyrics
[Verse 1]
I went to a hop with my boyfriend
We were dancing to our favorite song
Somebody turned out the lights and he walked away
He said he wouldn’t be gone too long[Chorus 1]
I struck a match
And there he was a-kissing her
I struck a match
And there he was a-holding her
It took a match to catch him doin’ me wrong[Verse 2]
Well it was dark and I couldn’t see her face
But I saw her hitting on my guy
All the kids were dancing and a-havin’ fun
But I couldn’t do a thing but cry[Chorus 1]
I struck a match
And there he was a-kissing her
I struck a match
And there he was a-holding her
It took a match to catch him doing’ me wrong[Post-Chorus 1]
Well, I wiped away the tears and turned my head
So no one could see
But my girlfriend heard me cry and asked me
So I said, “A match burned me!”[Verse 3]
The lights went on at the hop
And my boyfriend came back to my side
He said he went for a soda
I said, “Honey, I know you lied”[Chorus 2]
‘Cause I struck a match
And I saw you kissing
(I) I struck a match
And you were holding her
It took a match to catch him doin’ me wrong[Post-Chorus 2]
I wiped away the tears and turned my head
So no one could see
Well my boyfriend heard me cry and asked me
So I said, “A match burned me!”[Chorus 1]
I struck a match
And there he was a-kissing her
I struck a match
And there he was a-holding her
It took a match to catch him doin’ me wrong[Outro]
Doin’ me wrong
Yeah, doin’ me wrong
Yeah, doin’ me wrong
You were doin’ me wrong