58 Years Ago, This Soft Rock Song With Controversial Lyrics Became a Big Hit

“Young Girl” was a 1968 single that sold more than a million copies. The song, by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart 58 years ago today. It also rose all the way to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Although some say this song hasn’t aged well, it has been recorded by dozens of other artists over the years, from The Lettermen to Matthew Morrison, who performed the song on Glee.

The controversial song is about an older man who is attracted to a younger woman. It has lyrics like: “Young girl, get out of my mind, my love for you is way out of line, better run, girl, you’re much too young, girl.”

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One user on Reddit said, “Damn thats really creepy now! I remember in the early ‘70s that was regular play on the radio.” Another said, “I use Pandora and am 75, so I listen to a lot of ’60s and ’70s rock. When I listened to the lyrics of this I was utterly shocked.”

However, others have defended the lyrics, saying, “Never knew why this freaks people out so much. He found out her age and is sending her away.”

The song was written by Jerry Fuller, who also wrote hits like “Travelin’ Man,” “A Wonder Like You,” and “Young World.” When describing “Young Girl,” the writer said, “I was on the road a lot as an artist, fronting various groups for many years. I guess every entertainer goes through a time when 14-year-olds look like 20-year-olds. That’s somewhat of an inspiration… not from my own experience, but just knowing that it happens.”

Fuller died from lung cancer in 2024 at the age of 85. After his death, Puckett issued a statement that said, “What can I say about a guy whose vision defined my musical identity and destiny. What can ANYONE say about a man who gave SO much to SO many through his talents and efforts in the world of music. Thank you, Jerry — the world was a better place with you in it.”