About the song
Released in 1965, “Live and Learn” by Lesley Gore is a classic pop song that exemplifies the artist’s knack for blending catchy melodies with insightful, often reflective lyrics. As one of the most successful female artists of the early 1960s, Lesley Gore rose to fame with hits like “It’s My Party” and “You Don’t Own Me”, which established her as a voice for the adolescent experience, particularly when it came to matters of love and heartache. However, “Live and Learn” is somewhat of an overlooked gem in her catalog, offering a more mature perspective and capturing a subtle shift in her musical style during this period.
Part of her album Lesley Gore Sings All About Love, “Live and Learn” stands out not only for its lyrical maturity but also for its departure from the teen-centric themes of Gore’s earlier work. The song is less about the immediate emotional turmoil of youth and more about personal growth and self-reflection, making it resonate deeply with listeners of all ages. It presents a sense of coming to terms with life’s inevitable lessons, an outlook that reflects the realities of growing up and facing life’s challenges head-on.
Musically, “Live and Learn” features the smooth, polished pop sound typical of mid-60s productions, with lush orchestration and a vibrant instrumental backing. The arrangement is both upbeat and rich, showcasing the sophisticated pop craftsmanship of the time. The strings, horns, and percussion work together seamlessly to create a dynamic yet warm sound, supporting Gore’s emotive and confident vocal delivery. The song’s arrangement evokes a sense of optimism and resolution, which complements the theme of learning from life’s experiences.
Lyrically, “Live and Learn” is a reflection on how we grow and evolve through life’s ups and downs. It acknowledges the difficulties and mistakes that come with growing up, yet it emphasizes that these challenges are ultimately a part of the journey towards greater understanding. The message is clear: through every heartache and disappointment, we learn valuable lessons that shape us into stronger, wiser individuals. This theme of personal growth and resilience was a departure from the more simplistic themes of romance and heartbreak found in many pop songs of the era. In that sense, “Live and Learn” feels more timeless, offering wisdom and reassurance that transcends age.
The societal influence of “Live and Learn” lies in its ability to speak to the evolving attitudes of the mid-1960s, an era when young people were beginning to challenge societal norms and seek new definitions of freedom, identity, and maturity. While Lesley Gore was often associated with the teeny-bopper scene, this song represented a more reflective, adult side of her musical persona. It was a sign of the times when many artists, including Gore, began to mature and confront deeper emotional and social issues in their music. The 1960s, with its cultural shifts, political upheaval, and social movements, demanded songs that spoke to the complexities of life, and “Live and Learn” fits this bill perfectly.
For Gore, this track allowed her to broaden her artistic scope, showcasing her vocal versatility and depth. Though she had already gained recognition as a teen idol, “Live and Learn” demonstrated that she was capable of creating music that could be both entertaining and introspective. The song offered a departure from the typical pop formula of the time, blending a universal message of personal growth with a sound that was both contemporary and sophisticated.
Furthermore, the influence of “Live and Learn” on pop music cannot be understated. It was part of the broader shift that saw many artists move away from the simplistic love songs of the early 60s toward more complex, reflective lyrics. The song’s theme of learning from life’s experiences would influence future generations of pop artists who would use music as a vehicle for self-expression and social commentary. In particular, it provided a template for women in music, showing that pop songs could be both emotionally powerful and socially relevant. Lesley Gore’s willingness to tackle themes of personal development and emotional maturity set her apart from many of her contemporaries, allowing her to maintain a lasting relevance in the ever-changing musical landscape.
In conclusion, “Live and Learn” is a remarkable track that exemplifies Lesley Gore’s growth as an artist. Released in 1965 as part of her album Lesley Gore Sings All About Love, the song resonates with its message of personal growth, self-reflection, and resilience. It was a significant step away from the more lighthearted pop hits that had defined her early career, showcasing her ability to tackle deeper emotional and societal themes. The song is both a product of its time and a timeless reflection on the lessons we all must learn as we navigate life’s challenges. Lesley Gore proved with this song that pop music could be both fun and meaningful, leaving an enduring legacy in the hearts of listeners who appreciated its emotional depth and universal message.
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Lyrics
[Intro]
(Do do do do do do do do)
(Do do do do do do do do)[Verse 1]
It’s too late when you discover
You can’t tell a book by its cover
One heartbreak leads to another
Live and learn[Verse 2]
Too bad we find out the hard way
Why don’t we do things the smart way
There’s a right way and then there is our way
Live and learn[Bridge 1]
Ooh, people give advice
They tried to be your friend
That’s all very nice
But in the very end
You’ll do what you want
No matter what they say
You’ll do it your way[Instrumental]
[Bridge 2]
Well, when you play with fire
You know that you’ll get burned
When you fall in love
You that you’ll get hurt
I’m the one who knows
From experience
I’m an expert loser[Verse 3]
No more sweet little girl now
I’ve learned my lesson and I vow
I won’t make the same mistakes now
Live and learn[Outro]
Ooh, I’ve learned my lesson and I vow
I won’t make the same mistakes now
Live and learnOhh yeah, I’ve learned my lesson and I vow
I won’t make the same mistakes now
Live and learn