About the Song
While the Shangri-Las are known for their dramatic tales of teenage angst, “Out in the Streets” (1965) offers a refreshing twist on the typical girl group narrative. This energetic and defiant song throws a spotlight on a character not often seen in pop music of the era: a young woman yearning for freedom and independence.
Written by the songwriting duo of Ellie Greenwich and Jeff Barry, “Out in the Streets” breaks away from themes of heartbreak and longing. Instead, it pulsates with a rebellious energy. The opening lines, “He’s gotta be out in the street” establish a sense of urgency. The “he” in question isn’t a lost love, but a restless young man yearning to escape the confines of social expectations.
The song isn’t just about a boy – it’s about a yearning for a life beyond the traditional constraints placed on young women. Lines like “He don’t hang around with the gang no more” hint at a rejection of societal norms. The repeated phrase “Out in the streets” becomes a mantra, a call for liberation and a taste of the possibilities that lie outside the familiar.
Musically, “Out in the Streets” is a departure from the Shangri-Las’ usual sound. Gone are the dramatic ballads and wall-of-sound production. Instead, the song features a driving beat, handclaps, and a prominent saxophone line, creating a sense of frenetic energy that perfectly complements the lyrics. The Shangri-Las’ signature raw vocals add an edge, further emphasizing the rebellious spirit of the song.
“Out in the Streets” wasn’t a chart-topping hit, reaching only number 53 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, its influence on music history is undeniable. The song’s celebration of youthful rebellion and its portrayal of a young woman yearning for freedom paved the way for a new wave of female artists who would challenge societal expectations in the years to come. It remains a powerful anthem for anyone who feels trapped and longs to break free.
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Lyrics: “Out In The Streets”
He don’t hang around with the gang no more
He don’t do the wild things that he did before
He used to act bad, used to, but he quit it
It make me so sad ’cause I know that he did it for me(Can’t you see now)
And I can see
(It’s still in the streets)
His heart, is out in the streetsHe don’t comb his hair like he did before
And he don’t wear those dirty old black boots no more
But he’s not the same, somethin’ about his kissin’
That tells me he’s changed, I know that something’s missing inside(Somethin’s gone)
Somethin’s died
(It’s still in the streets)
His heart, is out in the streetsHe grew up on the sidewalk, streetlight shinin’ above
He grew up with no-one to love
He grew up on the sidewalk, he grew up running free
He grew up and then he met meHe don’t hang around with the gang no more
Gee, he doesn’t smile like he did before
I wish I didn’t care, I wish I’d never met him
They’re waitin’ downstairs, I know I’ve got to set him free(Send him back)
He’s gotta be
(Out in the streets)
His heart is out in the streetsHe don’t hang around with the gang no more
(Out in the streets)
He don’t hang around with the gang no more
(Out in the streets)He don’t hang around with the gang no more
(Out in the streets)
He don’t hang around with the gang no more
(Out in the streets)