About the song
Lesley Gore was a trailblazing artist in the 1960s, known for her empowering anthems and ability to capture the emotions of young women with authenticity and grace. Among her later works, “Treat Me Like a Lady” stands out as a poignant reminder of her talent and evolving artistry. Released in 1975, this song marked a significant departure from the bubblegum pop sound that initially made her famous, diving into a more mature and soulful territory. It appeared on her album “Love Me by Name”, an underrated gem that showcased her versatility and deeper emotional range.
At its core, “Treat Me Like a Lady” is a song about empowerment, respect, and individuality. The lyrics convey a woman’s insistence on being valued and appreciated for who she is, not merely for superficial traits. This theme resonates deeply with the feminist movements of the 1970s, a time when women were asserting their rights and redefining their roles in society. Lesley Gore, who had already established herself as an advocate for individuality with hits like “You Don’t Own Me”, brought her message of self-respect into this more sophisticated and introspective track.
Musically, the song blends elements of soft rock, soul, and pop, creating a rich and layered sound that complements Gore’s expressive voice. The production, overseen by the renowned Quincy Jones, lends the track a polished and sophisticated quality. The lush instrumentation and heartfelt melody provide the perfect backdrop for Gore’s emotive performance, allowing her voice to shine with both vulnerability and strength. Her delivery is nuanced, capturing the complexity of the emotions conveyed in the lyrics.
“Treat Me Like a Lady” also reflects Lesley Gore’s growth as an artist and her ability to stay relevant in a rapidly changing music industry. By the mid-1970s, the pop landscape had shifted dramatically, but Gore’s willingness to experiment with her sound and tackle more mature themes proved her enduring relevance. This song served as a bridge between her early teen idol persona and her later work as a sophisticated and socially conscious artist.
Though “Treat Me Like a Lady” did not achieve the same commercial success as her earlier hits, it remains a standout in her catalog for its heartfelt message and polished execution. It is a testament to Gore’s artistry and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. The song reminds us of the importance of self-respect and the power of demanding to be treated with dignity—a message that remains as vital today as it was when Gore first sang it.
In the broader context of her career, “Treat Me Like a Lady” is a shining example of Lesley Gore’s ability to evolve while staying true to her core values. It is a track that deserves recognition not only for its artistry but also for its timeless message of respect and self-worth.
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Lyrics
I know I look like an open bookBut if you took another lookYou just might discoverWhat’s under my obvious coverWell, toy dollNo, I don’t want that nameAnd if I gotta play that gameThen you another thing comin’Don’t walk past, start runnin’ offTreat me like a ladyShow me you’re proud of meLove me like your babyOut in a crowd with meTreat me like a lady, yeahShow me or just go before we startSnap, pop, it’s easy as one, two, threeYou thought you had it made with meForget it, my RomeoOr Rover, I’m not a pushover ohHey, you, I’d give and you know I wouldAnd love you like a good girl shouldBut don’t treat me like any otherOoh, I want the lover toTreat me like a ladyDon’t be ashamed of meLove me like your babyStop playing games with meTreat me like a lady, yeahShow me or just go before we startBaby, don’t lie to meDon’t even try with meIf you don’t love all the waySay goodbye to me, yeahTreat, treat, treat me like a lady, ladyCome here and love me, love me like a lady, babyTreat, treat, treat me like a lady, ladyI wanna love you, love you like a lady, babyTreat, treat, treat me like a lady, ladyWant you to love me, love me like a lady, baby