Earlier tonight, this song was mentioned in a conversation with a friend, and at first it didn’t ring any bells.  Oh sure, I well remember Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, well remember other of their songs, such as Young Girl, Lady Madonna, The Mighty Quinn, but Lady Willpower didn’t ring any bells.  Until I listened to it and remembered it as one that was a favourite many years ago.  I’m horrible with titles and lyrics, but a tune can bring back the memory in an instant.

Try as I might … and I did, for over 30 minutes tonight … I cannot find much in the way of trivia or background on this song.  It was written by Jerry Fuller and recorded by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap for their 1968 album Incredible. The single was awarded a million-selling Gold disc from the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America).

It is sung from the point of view of a man who is frustrated that the woman he loves will not agree to have sex with him. He coerces her, pledging to “shower [her] heart with tenderness” if she submits, but also issues an ultimatum (“It’s now or never”) if she does not.

Released in June 1968, the song charted at #2 in the U.S. and #5 in the UK.

Lady Willpower
Gary Puckett

Lady Willpower, it’s now or never
Give your love to me and I’ll shower
Your heart with tenderness endlessly

I know you want to see me but you’re afraid
Of what I might have on my mind
One thing you can be sure of
I’ll take good care of your love
If you will let me give you mine

Lady Willpower, it’s now or never
Give your love to me and I’ll shower
Your heart with tenderness endlessly

Did no one ever tell you the facts of life
Well there’s so much you have to learn
And I would gladly teach you
If I could only reach you
And get your lovin’ in return

Lady Willpower, it’s now or never
Give your love to me and I’ll shower
Your heart with tenderness endlessly

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Jerry Fuller
Lady Willpower lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc