Sinclair Lewis inspired Harper Valley PTA
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
"Harper Valley PTA" by Jeannie C. Riley was number one on the Billboard pop chart 50 years ago this week.
Riley heard it while she was working as a secretary in Nashville. It was originally recorded by Margie Singleton, who had asked Tom T. Hall to write her a song that would tell a story like "Ode to Billie Joe."
Hall said in an interview with The Boot that "Harper Valley PTA" was inspired in part by the writings of Sinclair Lewis, especially his novels which focus on hypocrisy and the social structure of a small town.
Support Local News
When breaking news happens, MPR News provides the context you need. Help us meet the significant demands of these newsgathering efforts.