You Don't Own Me: SSA Choral Octavo
Words and music by John Madara and Dave White / arr. Jay Althouse
Item: 00-PO-0002920
$2.25
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
Girl power! And a total blast to sing! This ultimate "declaration of independence" for SSA choirs was originally sung by Lesley Gore in the '60s. It was also featured in the movies Dirty Dancing and The First Wives Club. Great lyrics, great harmonies. You go, girls!
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
8
SKU:
00-PO-0002920
More about this title
About the Composer: John Madara
John Madara co-wrote "You Don't Own Me" with Dave White in 1960, creating one of the era's most defiant pop anthems. The song became a cultural milestone when Lesley Gore recorded it, establishing itself as an enduring statement about personal autonomy and self-determination. Madara's gift for crafting memorable melodies paired with socially conscious lyrics made him a significant figure in 1960s popular music.
Why we love this
Jay Althouse's arrangement captures the swagger and sass of the original while giving SSA singers genuinely interesting harmonic work to dig into. The piece balances accessibility with sophistication, meaning your singers will have fun performing it while building real musicianship. Its cultural footprint makes it a natural draw for audiences and a conversation starter about what makes a song resonate across decades.
What to expect
Assertive and energetic, with an infectious pop groove undercut by genuine emotional weight. The lyrics deliver a powerful message wrapped in a melody that sticks with you, giving singers the chance to convey both defiance and dignity.
Who it's for
SSA choirs looking for contemporary pop repertoire with real substance and attitude. This works especially well for middle school and high school programs seeking pieces that engage singers and audiences alike.
How to get the most out of it
- Lean into the attitude from measure one. The confidence in the opening solo line sets the tone for everything that follows; encourage your soloist to own the space.
- Balance the three parts carefully during the harmonized sections so the top line remains clear without drowning out the supporting voices.
- Work the rhythmic precision of the backup vocal figures; they're deceptively tricky and need to lock in for the groove to land.
- Use the recorded accompaniment in rehearsal to keep your singers anchored to the groove, then pull it back gradually so they internalize the pocket.
How to use it
Program this as a statement piece in a concert celebrating women's voices and perspectives, or pair it with other pop standards for a contemporary choral set. Its recognizable hook and movie connections make it a perfect anchor for a themed concert or end-of-year celebration.
Skills your students will build
- Singing with confidence and attitude in a contemporary style
- Balancing independent lines while maintaining harmonic blend
- Rhythmic precision and pocket awareness in a pop context
- Interpretation of lyrics with emotional intention and conviction