The Little Old Lady (from Pasadena) – Jan & Dean

About the Song

Ah, now we’re venturing into a slightly more whimsical side of Jan & Dean’s repertoire with “The Little Old Lady (from Pasadena).” Released in 1964, this song might seem like a complete departure from their usual surf rock anthems, but it’s every bit as charming and catchy.

Imagine this: you’re cruising down the California coast, top down, wind in your hair, when suddenly a little old lady in a brand new sports car zooms past you! That’s the quirky premise of “The Little Old Lady (from Pasadena).” The song tells the story of an unexpected drag racer, a sweet old lady who defies stereotypes and leaves the young narrator speechless with her driving skills.

The playful lyrics are pure entertainment. They describe the little old lady’s outfit – a “flowered dress and a bonnet” – juxtaposed with the powerful car she’s driving – a “souped-up Studebaker.” The contrast between the image and the reality is hilarious, making the song even more delightful.

Musically, “The Little Old Lady (from Pasadena)” is a delightful blend of pop and surf rock. The driving beat keeps your toes tapping, while the playful melodies and signature Jan & Dean harmonies add a touch of sweetness. It’s a feel-good song that’s sure to bring a smile to your face.

There’s more to this song than just lighthearted fun, though. It subverts expectations and celebrates the unexpected. The little old lady becomes a symbol of defying stereotypes and proving that age is just a number. She’s a reminder that anyone can surprise you, and life can be full of delightful surprises if you keep an open mind.

So, next time you hear “The Little Old Lady (from Pasadena),” don’t just tap your foot – take a moment to appreciate its humor, its subversion of expectations, and its reminder to embrace the unexpected adventures life throws your way.

Video

Lyrics: “The Little Old Lady From Pasadena”

It’s the little old lady from Pasadena

The little old lady from Pasadena
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
Has a pretty little flowerbed of white gardenias
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
But parked in a rickety old garage
Is a brand new, shiny red, super-stock Dodge

And everybody’s sayin’ that there’s nobody meaner
Than the little old lady from Pasadena
She drives real fast and she drives real hard
She’s the terror of Colorado Boulevard
It’s the little old lady from Pasadena

If you see her on the street, don’t try to choose her
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
You might drive a goer but you’ll never lose her
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
Well, she’s gonna get a ticket now sooner or later
‘Cause she can’t keep her foot off the accelerator

And everybody’s sayin’ that there’s nobody meaner
Than the little old lady from Pasadena
She drives real fast and she drives real hard
She’s the terror of Colorado Boulevard
It’s the little old lady from Pasadena

(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
The guys come to race her from miles around
But she’ll give ’em a length, then she’ll shut ’em down

And everybody’s sayin’ that there’s nobody meaner
Than the little old lady from Pasadena
She drives real fast and she drives real hard
She’s the terror of Colorado Boulevard
It’s the little old lady from Pasadena

(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)…