Introduction:
“Walk Like a Man” is a defining hit single by the American rock and roll/doo-wop band The Four Seasons. Released in January 1963, the song quickly soared to the top of the charts, becoming the band’s third number-one hit in the United States. It was featured on their album “Big Girls Don’t Cry and Twelve Others,” released in February of the same year.
Written by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, “Walk Like a Man” is a masterclass in early 1960s pop craftsmanship, characterized by its infectious rhythm, Frankie Valli’s soaring falsetto vocals, and the distinctive “stomping” beat that punctuates the track. The lyrics tell the story of a man taking his father’s advice to stand firm and leave a relationship where he is being belittled, urging him to “walk like a man” and preserve his dignity. This relatable theme of asserting oneself resonated strongly with audiences.
The song’s impact was immediate and significant. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on March 2, 1963, and remained in that coveted position for three weeks. Furthermore, it climbed to number three on the Billboard R&B singles chart, showcasing its crossover appeal. Beyond its commercial success in the US, “Walk Like a Man” also charted internationally, reaching number one in New Zealand and number 12 in the United Kingdom. Its enduring popularity is evident in its inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.” The song has also been featured in several films and notably in the Broadway hit musical and subsequent film adaptation, “Jersey Boys,” which chronicles the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, further cementing its place in popular culture.
